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Author: Kyla Hardon

Calgary – Watering Schedule

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(originally shared by CPCIA)

City of Calgary presented updates on the Preferred Watering Days initiative and Water Managed Sites Program. These proactive measures aim to help manage the City's water system load while critical infrastructure repairs and upgrades continue.

While essential repairs to the feeder main have been completed, the City is not yet operating the line at full capacity. Until major infrastructure projects are finalized, there remains an increased risk that Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions could be called if water demand exceeds system capacity.

As we enter the spring and summer seasons — our busiest period for irrigation — it’s vital that our industry leads by example. By working together, we can help reduce system strain and minimize the likelihood of formal restrictions being imposed. 

Why Water Conservation Matters Now, Reducing watering especially important when:

  • Water treatment or distribution infrastructure is under repair or upgrade;
  • Hot weather drives high demand that strains water treatment capacity;
  • River levels are lower than normal due to drought;
  • River water quality fluctuates.

Action Requested: Adopt Preferred Watering Days

To assist the City and protect the health of our landscapes, all irrigation professionals are asked to configure systems to follow the City’s Preferred Watering Days.

This is not a bylaw change — it is a voluntary industry effort to help balance demand and protect our ability to operate without restrictions.

Preferred Watering Days:

  • Odd-Numbered Addresses: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
  • Even-Numbered Addresses: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

By adjusting irrigation schedules accordingly during spring system start-ups, we can help the City's reservoirs replenish adequately during periods of peak use.

About Water Managed Sites (WMS)

A Water Managed Site (WMS) designation certifies that an irrigation system can adjust watering based on actual site needs — either by weather conditions or soil moisture levels — to maintain landscape health efficiently.

Certified WMS sites are permitted greater flexibility under Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions (Schedule E).

Becoming a WMS ensures:

  • Healthier landscapes during periods of water shortage.
  • Protection of client properties.
  • Continued leadership by our industry in responsible water use.

For more information about Water Managed Site certification, please visit: Water Managed Sites

TFWP + Public Health information

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Due to outbreaks of measles in Canada and in other countries, here are some reminders for employers and temporary foreign workers (workers) participating in the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW Program).

Stay informed and follow the recommendations of  the appropriate public health authorities

Measles is an extremely contagious disease caused by a virus. The Public Health Agency of Canada is working closely with provincial, territorial and international partners to share information and monitor the situation in Canada and globally.

Employers and workers can learn about measles and the preventive measures that can be adopted by consulting:

Employers and workers can refer to weekly surveillance reports to keep track of the current status in Canada, at a national level, and in their region of work.

As the situation evolves, public health recommendations may change. Employers and workers are recommended to regularly check the website of the public health authority in their province or territory to obtain updates and information on the preventive measures in place, particularly the availability of measles vaccination in their region:

Reminders regarding the responsibilities of employers and workers participating in the TFW Program

  • On or before the beginning of the employment period, the employer must provide workers with the most recent version of the document: Temporary foreign workers: Your rights are protected - Canada.ca. The employer must also ensure that this information remains accessible to the workers throughout the duration of their employment.
  • Workers are entitled to free healthcare under the health insurance system of the province or territory where they work. In case of delays upon their arrival or for any other period during which the workers are not covered, the employer must obtain and pay, without deductions from the worker’s salary, for a private health insurance covering emergency medical care until the workers are covered by the provincial or territorial plan. For workers under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) stream, the employer should ensure to follow requirements provided in the SAWP contracts.
  • As the most effective way to protect oneself against measles is through vaccination, workers are encouraged to review their immunization history, including for measles, before coming to work in Canada. The employer should also make reasonable efforts to support workers who wish to voluntarily get vaccinated in Canada.
  • In the event of an outbreak of communicable diseases, such as measles, the employer must work with the appropriate provincial or territorial public health authority to establish clear protocols to mitigate disease spread and maintain transparent communication with employees and the public health authority. Both the employer and the workers must follow the guidelines issued by public health. This includes recommendations regarding isolation for a specified period, including when housing is provided by the employer.
  • If a worker is sick or shows symptoms of measles, they must inform their employer as soon as possible, isolate at home and call a health care provider immediately for advice. If the worker needs to leave isolation to seek medical care, it is essential to inform the facility before arriving, that the worker may have measles to allow for appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of virus to others. The employer must make reasonable efforts to ensure that workers have access to healthcare services and professionals, such as a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

In order to maintain a safe working environment, it is essential for employers and temporary foreign workers to be aware of available preventive measures to reduce the transmission of measles, especially given the resurgence of cases.

You are encouraged to share this communication throughout your respective networks, and with any colleagues or partners who may need to be aware of this information.

If you have questions about measles, please consult:

*Please note that a Spanish version of the information sheet is linked here: Measles Factsheet_SPA

If you have questions on the TFW Program, please visit Canada.ca or reach out to the Employer Contact Centre.

Thank you for your continued collaboration.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Employment and Social Development Canada

City of Calgary updates Water bylaws! 

City of Calgary updates Water bylaws! 

Following feedback from industry and the public to the City of Calgary, Council today passed updates to the Water Utility Bylaw (40M2006), including most importantly updated to Outdoor Water Restrictions as we head into the 2025 season.   These changes were defined as ‘housekeeping’ and are not a complete review of the bylaw which is planned in the coming year.  While the changes passed on March 18th do not fully address industry concerns, they do indeed go along way to providing some stability in the coming year.

Highlights include:

  • Allow watering for establishment for sod (21 days), seed (45 days), and new trees and shrubs (up to 5 years)
  • No set watering schedule in 2025.
  • Simplified watering time from 7pm to 10 am. (for setting irrigation systems)
  • Allows water use for construction and renovation (through stage 3)
  • Updates to how water managed sites are managed through various stages of water restrictions.

More details will be made available as they are published by City of Calgary.  Landscape Alberta submitted a letter of support as part of this review process along with ongoing consultations with the City of Calgary.  There is still more work to do in this area of course, but this is a great example of what your association can and will do for the collective benefit of industry.

USA-CANADA TARIFF UPDATE

April 9, 2025

Liquidity measures announced by Government of Canada to support businesses.

Trade Impact Program: Export Development Canada will deploy $5 billion over two years to help exporters navigate tariffs, cash flow issues, and market expansion.

Business Loans: $500 million in low-interest loans via the Business Development Bank of Canada for affected sectors and supply chains, plus financial advisory services.

Agriculture Support: $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada to ease cash flow challenges for the agriculture and food industry.

Advance Payments Program: The interest-free limit is set at $250,000 for 2025.

 

April 2, 2025

'Liberation' Day Instant Reaction
April 2, 2025 - President Trump today announced a series of global tariffs.  Canada and Mexico did not receive any new/additional tariffs and will continue to function under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and the free-trade clauses within (12% tariff).  This helps the horticultural community in their most direct imports and exports will continue to be tariff free as part of CUSMA.  However, tariffs on steel, aluminum (25%), the automotive sector (variable) and energy and potash (10%) will remain as of today.  This will be ongoing impacts to equipment and operation costs.  Uncertainty remains high across the economy.  Resources and news for members will be made available as policies and procedures evolve.

March 31, 2025

On Wednesday April 2, members across Canada are invited to join Landscape Ontario (LO) for a discussion about the current situation and its impacts on the green trades, as well as potential mitigation strategies.

Hosted by LO executive director Joe Salemi, CAE the session will include perspectives from Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) executive director Victor Santacruz, CLP, CAE and Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) executive vice-president of advocacy Corinne Pohlmann.

Attendance is free, and will be hosted virtually and in person at LO’s home office in Milton, Ont.

If you have specific questions you would like addressed, please include them in the registration form.

Sign up: https://landscapeontario.jotform.com/250755844105861 

March 19, 2025

Tariff Town Hall: Join CNLA and LO for a Critical Discussion on Tariffs & Trade Challenges

As trade tensions with the U.S. create uncertainty, tariffs have become a major concern for the green industry. Landscape Alberta members are invited to take part in an important discussion on the challenges, impacts, and potential strategies to navigate this evolving situation.

Hosted by Landscape Ontario (LO) Executive Director Joe Salemi, this session will feature insights from CNLA Executive Director Victor Santacruz and CFIB Executive Vice-President of Advocacy Corinne Pohlmann. Together, they will provide updates on the current trade landscape and explore ways to mitigate risks for businesses in the landscape and horticulture sectors.

📍 Attend in person or virtually, live from LO’s home office in Milton, ON.
💬 Have a question? Submit it during registration to have it addressed during the discussion.
💲 Free for Landscape Alberta members!

 

March 6, 2025

ON HOLD - 25% Tariff on hold until April 2

U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he is again pausing his tariffs on some Canadian goods, offering the country yet another roughly month-long reprieve from a punishing 25 per cent levy.

Read more >> Trump pausing tariffs on some Canadian goods until April 2

 

 

March 5, 2025

US President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday, March 3, 2025, that 25% tariffs will be implemented on Canadian and Mexican imports on Tuesday despite the initiatives to control fentanyl trafficking into the US and illegal migration.

All imports of Canadian goods are to be hit with a 25% tariff except for energy which has a 10% tariff.

Canada has worked constructively and collaboratively and invested billions of dollars over this past month to address the concerns raised by the US administration. Canada has addressed the US concerns regarding fentanyl, as proved by the US Border Service data. This removes any potential justification of US tariffs. In return, Canada has implemented $30 billion in tariffs immediately, with another $155 billion to be implemented in 21 days' time. The Prime Minister stated that EI will be expanded and made more flexible, and businesses will be supported.

To see the news release, click here.

To see the initial list of US products under tariff click here.  The list mostly contains general consumer goods like food, clothing, etc. but does have provisions for hand-tools and footwear that could lead to increased prices almost immediately as the season starts.

Canada Border Services Agency has issued a customs notice on surtaxes on certain goods originating from the US. The order is here.

What this means in the short-term:

  • Many landscaping tools, machinery, and supplies are imported from the US - retaliatory tariffs will make these more expensive.
  • Tariffs could increase prices, squeezing profit margins and potentially raising service costs.
  • Approximately 6% of total landscape horticultural crop value is exported to the USA (number is over 40% for greenhouse production). It is much lower in Alberta and Saskatchewan but given that 99.6% of all exports are to the US due to phytosanitary regulations around movement of soil it will impact some areas and growers very directly.  It also limits are ability to import plant material from non-US sources.
  • General economic un-ease, with a looming recession predicted, consumer confidence will be weak. We’ve seen in the past that economic conditions that lead to travel or food uncertainty (9/11, Covid pandemic) has resulted in greater consumer spending on home and garden supplies.  A prolonged recession combined with high prices on other consumer goods could easily counteract this effect.
  • Additional tariffs are scheduled to implement March 12 and April 2 as well as counter-tariffs from Canada set take place in late March. The proposed list of second round counter-tariffs includes a large variety of plant material that blankets much of the horticultural industry.  The US has vowed to match an retaliatory tariffs at equal rates, meaning that stage 2 will include tariffs on US imports to Canada of plant material.  We will continue to monitor listings as the issue progresses.

What Landscape Alberta is doing:

We are actively working to provide supports to members through this difficult trade dispute.

  • Offering regular updates that are industry specific as new categories of goods are added to the tariff and counter-tariff lists.
  • Working together with larger industry groups across agriculture and small business to tell our story and advocate for a prompt resolution, including groups like AAFC, CNLA, COHA, AGGA, CFIB and the Provincial and Federal Governments.
  • Advocating to the federal government to invest tariff revenue into support programs for small businesses and consumers.
  • Advocating for the federal government to exclude products essential to our industry from counter-tariff action (plants, irrigation supplies, construction equipment).

What can you do:

  • Communicate! With customers, supplier, and your peers.
  • Look at new supply chains, source local. Strengthen your B2B network – start with Landscape Alberta members and then related associations in the federation across Canada.
  • Activate line of credit early to help manage cashflow and operations.
  • Reduce large capital spending. Wait it out if you can, rent or look at alternate tariff free options.

Resources:

TFW Program – Information on Primary Agriculture Sector / Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program

Starting January 2nd, the wage rate for Nursery, sod and greenhouse workers in Alberta has increased to $17.98 per hour (from $17.44) as part of the annual 3.12 increase set to the consume price index.  Other changes and updates are below.

Primary Agriculture

Subject to certain criteria, four streams are available to employers to hire temporary foreign workers in the Primary agriculture sector.

Employers should regularly consult the TFW Program’s website to ensure that they are fully aware of and updated on their compliance obligations and the requirements applicable for each stream:

Prevailing wages in the SAWP and the Agricultural streams

Employers must provide temporary foreign workers with the same wages and benefits as those provided to Canadian and permanent resident workers in the same occupation.

At all times during the employment period, employers are responsible for adjusting the worker’s wage to ensure that it meets or exceeds the applicable federal/provincial/territorial minimum wage rates in effect or the National Commodity List (NCL) tables rates, whichever is higher.

The next update to the NCL wage tables is scheduled for January 2, 2025. This update will include adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index. Accordingly, wages will increase by 3.12% unless the federal/provincial/territorial minimum wage is higher.

Throughout the year 2025, based on federal/provincial/territorial changes to minimum wage, other updates will be made to the NCL tables. The TFW Program website will be continually updated to reflect these changes, and employers are encouraged to consult it regularly.

SAWP contract for 2025

The TFW Program SAWP Stream has a standard, non-modifiable contract that is reviewed annually. The SAWP contract doesn’t need to be included with the employer’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application. However, employers are required to keep a copy of the contract signed by both the employer and the worker on file in the event of an inspection. Workers must sign the copy of this contract on or before the first day of work, and employers must provide copies of the contract to the workers in English or French, and Spanish (when applicable). The SAWP contract for 2025 will be available on the TFW Program’s website in early January.

Temporary suspension of the minimum advertising requirements

As of January 12, 2022, and until June 30, 2025, minimum advertising requirements are suspended for employers applying for a LMIA to hire temporary foreign workers for primary agricultural positions.

This means that employers are not required to submit proof of advertisement with their LMIA application; however, they are expected to continue efforts to recruit Canadians and permanent residents, including members of groups who are under-represented in the labour market, such as:

  • vulnerable youth,
  • Indigenous peoples,
  • newcomers to Canada,
  • persons with disabilities, and
  • asylum seekers with valid work permits.

For inspection purposes, employers must continue to retain records that document evidence of their recruitment efforts.

CNLA 2024 Wage Survey

Boost Your Business with Wage Survey Data: A Game-Changer for Landscapers, Nurseries, and Garden Centres 

In today's competitive market, small businesses in the landscaping, nursery, and garden centre industries face unique challenges in attracting and retaining skilled employees. One powerful tool that can give you an edge is wage survey data. Understanding industry-specific wages in your geographic area not only helps you stay competitive but also enhances your hiring and retention strategies. 

Industry-Specific Insights
For landscapers, nurseries, and garden centres, wage survey data provides a clear picture of prevailing wage rates within your specific industry. This information allows you to offer competitive salaries that attract top talent. Whether you're hiring seasonal workers, experienced horticulturists, or equipment operators, knowing the standard wage rates helps you make informed decisions that align with industry norms. 

Geographic Relevance
Wage survey data is invaluable because it considers the geographic specifics of your business location. Pay rates can vary significantly from one region to another due to differences in the cost of living and local market conditions. By accessing localized wage data, you can ensure that your compensation packages are attractive and fair for your region. This not only helps in attracting local talent but also in making your business a desirable place to work. 

Benefits to Hiring 

  1. Competitive Offers: By leveraging wage survey data, you can craft competitive job offers that stand out to potential employees. When candidates see that your compensation aligns with or exceeds industry standards, they are more likely to choose your business over others. 
  1. Attracting Talent: Offering competitive wages helps you attract a diverse pool of skilled candidates. This is especially crucial in the landscaping, nursery, and garden centre industries where specialized skills and knowledge are essential. 

Benefits to Retention 

  1. Employee Satisfaction: Fair and competitive wages contribute to higher employee satisfaction. When your staff feels valued and fairly compensated, they are more likely to stay loyal to your business, reducing turnover rates. 
  1. Enhanced Productivity: Satisfied employees are generally more motivated and productive. By using wage survey data to offer competitive salaries, you create a positive work environment where employees are committed to delivering their best performance. 
  1. Long-Term Growth: Retaining skilled workers ensures that your business can maintain high standards of service and productivity. Experienced employees bring valuable knowledge and expertise, contributing to the long-term growth and success of your business. 

All participants in the 2024 CNLA Wage Survey have been automatically sent digital access to the full survey report.  Members that did not particpate that require a copy can do so for the preferred rate of $50, while non-members will pay $75.  For more details or to order your copy of the wage survey please visit www.wagesurvey.ca. 

Make the smart choice today and leverage wage survey data to boost your hiring and retention strategies! 🌱🌼🪴 

Membership Interest Form

Membership Interest Form

About Us

Landscape Alberta (Landscape Alberta Nursery Trades Association) proudly serves members who operate businesses and organizations in the horticulture industry in Alberta. Please complete and submit the form below so that our Member Services team can with follow-up with you about the benefits of joining your industry association.
Contact Information(Required)
*Business type: (select from list, choose all that apply)(Required)

Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of Landscape Alberta

Part of the application process for Active membership (landscape contractors, growers, or garden centres) includes verification that your business holds appropriate insurance (liability and WCB), as well as 2 sponsors that can attest to your experience in the industry along with a few more details about the services and products your business provides. Our staff will be in touch very soon to discuss the next steps to make the member application process as easy as possible.
Consent

2024 Landscape Alberta Nursery Producers Auction Donation Form

Landscape Alberta Nursery Producers Auction Donation Form 2024

Name(Required)
Mail to Landscape Alberta Nursery Producers Group, 18051 107 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5S 1K3. Cheques payable to Landscape Alberta.
Drop-Off Donation
Pick-Up Donation
Please upload photo(s) of your donation(s) AND your company logo.
Drop files here or
Max. file size: 614 MB.

    DED found in Edmonton 2024

    In August of 2024, four trees in the Killarney and Yellowhead Corridor East neighbourhoods in the City Edmonton, were identified to be infected with Dutch elm disease (DED). Although it is not possible to determine how the disease arrived in Edmonton, DED is often brought to new regions through the transport of firewood or by importing infected elm trees. Three of the elm trees were city-owned, and one privately owned.

    Sarah McPike, Biological Sciences Technician with the City of Edmonton and a Director of the Society to Prevent Dutch Elm Disease (STOPDED) spotted the initial suspect DED infected tree while driving through the neighborhood.  This tree was completely dead tree with a 55 cm DBH. Sarah observed the tree had peeling bark, with galleries, and numerous larvae and adults of banded elm bark beetle present.

    Samples from this tree were submitted to the Alberta Plant Health Lab (APHL) also located in Edmonton. Since the tree sample was dry and dead no cultures were able to be recovered. Technically, the tree sample came back from the lab as negative for DED, but was strongly suspected that it actually died of DED infection. This tree is not included in the number of the 4 positive trees in Edmonton.

    After an intense surveillance in the area 3 city owned trees along 127 Ave were sampled and tested positive.  They ranged from 15 and 25 cm DBH. Two of them were about 150 m from the initial tree, equidistant east and west from that tree. The third was about 100 m further west.

    The fourth positive tree was found on private property 500 m to the northwest of the western-most positive tree on 128 Ave, and was about 35 cm DBH. A notice was sent to the property owner to remove and dispose of the infected tree. Removal was supervised by the City of Edmonton and CFIA staff.

    The initial tree, as well as all the trees that tested positive for DED have been removed and disposed off as per the Provincial DED Prevention and Control Measures.  Any elms within 20 meters of these elms were also removed as a precaution against the disease having spread by root graft.

    Surveillance and monitoring were intensified in the region of the positive trees.  There are approximately 50 or 60 city elm trees (all 15 - 25 cm DBH) between the positive trees. There are a total of approximately 175 elms on that 127 Ave boulevard. 30+ additional trees with wilt symptoms were submitted to the APHL and all came back negative. Trees with even minor symptoms have been placed on a watch list for continued surveillance.  Several trees with high levels of decline have been removed, even though they did not test positive.

    All of the city elms on 127 Ave have been injected with TreeAzin to help combat European elm scale, which all of those trees had present.

    It is important to note that all suspect DED elm trees, both public and private are the responsibility of the municipality to sample. Under the Alberta Agricultural Pests Act (APA) “Pest and Nuisance Control Regulation (PNCR)” the DED pathogen is a named declared pest. All municipalities, counties and MDs in the province of Alberta have the responsibility and authority to prevent and control DED under the APA. The APHL accepts samples only from municipalities, counties, MD’s ad Special Areas, not from the home owner or private pruning companies.

    https://open.alberta.ca/publications/dutch-elm-disease-prevention-control-measures-responsibilities-authority-apa

    Since all Provincial and Federal DED requirements have been followed Alberta is still considered DED free at this point. The City of Edmonton will be doing extensive surveillance for DED and monitoring for the elm bark beetles in the following years.

    City of Calgary Water Crisis

    September 22, 2024

    Earlier this afternoon the City of Calgary announced all water restrictions are lifted and normal indoor and outdoor water use can resume.  This is approximately 1 week ahead of original schedule.  Thank you to City staff and contractors for your efforts throughout the water crisis.

    Hopefully we have a strong month of good weather remaining to get as much work done as possible.   The non-potable water stations will cease operation at 19:00 today.

    This signals the end of formal restrictions in 2024.  Landscape Alberta will now shift the focus of our interactions with the City of Calgary to recovery efforts and lessons learned that will be useful in updating the water-use bylaw in the coming months.

    We are also collecting ideas from industry on ways the City of Calgary can offer businesses impacted by the water crisis.  – https://www.instagram.com/p/C_yYHRJyMl-/  or email yycwater@landscape-alberta.com with your ideas to help ease the pain and/or help with recovery.

    September 12, 2024

    City of Calgary announced today that construction is ahead of schedule.  Repair will be complete by end of this weekend.  Water filling of the water main will begin on Monday, and take approximately 3 days while they also conduct water quality testing as they aim for full system restoration for September 21/22nd.
    This is approximately 1 week ahead of original schedule.  There might still be delays due to weather or other construction issues.
    In the meantime, The City is opening a 4th location at Graves Bridge for commercial access only. This site will open September 12th starting at 5AM. There will be no residential pick-up at this location .
    • Graves Bridge (Map Link)
    • Hours of Operation 5AM-7PM, 7 days a week
    We are also collecting ideas from industry on ways the City of Calgary can offer businesses impacted by the water crisis.  – https://www.instagram.com/p/C_yYHRJyMl-/  or email yycwater@landscape-alberta.com with your ideas to help ease the pain and/or help with recovery.

    September 3, 2024

    Calgary Water Crisis Update - Labour Day 

     Stage 4 water restrictions continue and as such no outdoor watering is permitted with potable water from a City of Calgary source.   

     Landscape Alberta’s advocacy around the free water pumping stations for commercial users appears to have been successful with an additional water pumping location added and additional stations and connection types at each location, which has resulted in little to no wait times.  This of course only serves a portion of the industry.   

    On September 3rd, the City of Calgary announced changes to pumping procedures that have resulted in additional daily capacity.  We’ve engaged with the City already to discuss the potential of movement to Stage 3 water restrictions given this news.  Ongoing, we continue to request financial support for impacted businesses and will work with the City in their review of the water use by-law to ensure equitable treatment for landscape / horticultural businesses in the updates. 

    August 28, 2024

    We are now two full days into the outdoor water restrictions.  It appears usage is still well above the target goal, and thus the lack of capacity to reopen the discussion about an exemption for landscape plantings and construction.
    The first two days for water pumping appears to be going well with the additional location, plus extra pumps at each location.  Wait times have been minimum.  With the majority of use being from landscape customers (100% on the first day).
    The City of Calgary has offered to set up an additional site at Douglasdale that would be open to smaller tanks (less than 5000gal) if wait times arise.  The setup for this new site will take more than a week for approvals, signage, staffing, etc.  We need to know from industry if this needed or not – email yycwater@landscape-alberta.com and comment whether or not you would use this station.
    We continue to advocate for relief for the landscape sector in Calgary, including relaxing of restrictions when possible and financial compensation to impacted companies.
    More info to follow.

    August 23, 2024

    Please see the below message from the City of Calgary regarding the implementation of Stage 4 Restrictions beginning at 12:01 am on August 26th.

    Landscape Alberta has been working very hard to find solutions to this devastating scenario for many in the Calgary landscape industry. This included requesting equitable treatment for business operations, including special allowances for watering for establishment periods and for construction. Given the current bylaw language, and the real fear of system collapse (including boil water orders between now and spring 2025) we have been working with the City in other ways.

    This includes expansion of the water pumping locations to include longer hours, more stations with more hookup sizes, and a priority for business use. Those waiting on CCC and FAC inspections may see more lenience in plant material quality.

    The City of Calgary has also committed to working with Landscape Alberta and it’s members on updates to the water usage bylaw in the near future. This will be an important phase that we can ensure more equitable treatment for our industry for the important work we do.   

    Please see yesterday’s email for a more detailed look at the ongoing efforts, and feel free to send suggestions, thoughts, rants, your story to yycwater@landscape-alberta.com so we can continue to advocate on your behalf. 

    ———

    As you may have heard in the media, The City is preparing to undertake urgent repairs of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main to maintain the health and stability of Calgary’s water system. To complete these repairs, we must once again take the Bearspaw South Feeder Main out of service. 

    Unfortunately, this means that starting on Monday August 26th at 12:01 am we need a temporary return to Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions. We will also be asking businesses and residents to limit their indoor water use like we did in June. This work is expected to be complete by the end of September. 

    About Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions  

    Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions prohibits all outdoor potable water use including:  

    • Watering lawns, gardens, flowers, trees, and shrubs using city water 
    • Washing down any outdoor surfaces, including exterior building surfaces, windows, sidewalks, driveways, or walkways of any sort (unless your business requires it for health and safety reasons) 
    • Filling outdoor decorative features, fountains, pools, or hot tubs  
    • Using potable water for construction purposes such as grading, compaction, or dust control.  

    Non-potable river water pick-up locations 

    During these Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions, The City will be reopening non-potable river water pick up locations with designated hours to support businesses and residents.    

    Non-potable water will be available for collection from three sites beginning August 26th: 

    Hours of operation will be 5am to 7pm daily for commercial use, and 4pm to 7pm daily for residential use. 

    Indoor water use reductions 

    In addition to the Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions, we are also asking residents and businesses to reduce their indoor water use by 25 per cent to ensure that we have enough water to meet essential needs until the repairs are complete.     

    About the upcoming repairs 

    After the initial June break and hot spot repairs were completed and the feeder main returned to service, we used a device called a PipeDiver to do an inspection of the entire length of the feeder main, which is 10.4 kilometres.  

    Our teams have been working alongside external experts to analyze the PipeDiver data. The data has revealed several new locations that need urgent repair. Some of these spots need to be repaired during this upcoming repair phase, while others will be addressed in our medium-to-long-term pipe rehabilitation plans.  

    While the repairs are being completed, the Bearspaw South Feeder Main will be offline. Without this feeder main, Calgary’s available supply of treated water is greatly diminished. We need to work together to ensure enough water remains available for everyone, as well as for critical uses like hospitals and firefighting. 

    Timing of the repairs 

    These new repair locations are places where we are concerned that the pipe is at risk of breaking in the near term. These repairs will maintain service until a comprehensive rehabilitation plan is implemented. 

    Timing was also influenced by the need to reduce reliance on the Glenmore Treatment Plant before winter water storage becomes critical in September. It’s important to understand that these repairs are planned, preventive, measures to maintain the pipe’s integrity until long-term solutions are finalized. 

    Please visit calgary.ca/watermainbreak for regular updates. You can also visit calgary.ca/savewateratwork for tips on how your business sector can conserve water. 

    August 22 – Update on City of Calgary Water Crisis

    It’s been a busy week as with rush towards August 26th.  The letter to the Mayor / Press release from last week has led to serious interaction with Council, City staff, the media, industry and the public.

    The Landscape Alberta working group continues to work towards meaningful solutions to the crisis for industry.  It has become clearer this week that the City lacks the ability to grant our request for exemption to Stage 3 for the landscape industry.  We’ve gathered data that suggest the landscape industry for new plantings and construction activity only would consume approximately 3.95 mega liters per day, or about 1% of the total restricted volume.  The current water use bylaw does not allow for exemption of one industry, as it only describes usage.  Combined with many other requests to the City, the cumulative total of potential exempt water use would put the system at real risk of failure.

    What we’ve heard back.

    1. Additional water stations with additional pumps will be added starting August 26th with a focus on contractor usage.
      • Sites include Baker Park, Odgen and now Bankside in Fish Creek.
      • Non-city stormwater ponds can be used for up to 6,250 cubic metres of water if provincial guidelines are met.
    2. The process for CCC and FAC cannot be granted a blanket exemption, but the City does offer to view sites based on the lack of water access this year as a mitigating factor in granting approvals.
    3. Air is unable to be used for testing irrigation systems due the inspection standards required.

    What we have asked for as additional support from the City of Calgary.

    1. Increased pumping locations and expanded hours of operation (5:00-22:00 daily)
    2. A permit system to allow for turf projects above 1000 sqft to be established. Would require registration/approval.
    3. Access to grant funds or tax rebates to assist companies in the additional costs of operations, including labour/equipment.
    4. Additional support for the water alternatives message and the importance of green infrastructure – we are the original environmentalists and not wasteful with water as some might have been led to believe.

    Landscape Alberta will continue to advocate on behalf of the entire landscape industry in a professional and productive manner.  We understand frustrations are sky high right now, but we also need to ensure a healthy relationship with City administration as we move into consultations on the water use bylaw and other policy.   The future decisions will have long reaching and lasting impacts on the industry, and we need to be sure a more favourable position for the landscape sector.  After August 26th, we will work with City officials to monitor the ongoing water usage to evaluate if the actual consumption changes such that our original requests might be revisited.

    What can you do?

    1. Please direct feedback to City of Calgary Staff to yycwater@landscape-alberta.com instead of directly to staff contacts.  We’ve had reports of unproductive, unprofessional language – which is frankly unacceptable.
    2. Write your councillor / Mayor and thank them for being responsive. Ask for additional support, including the items above.
    3. Plan for extra time, extra hours, and work that doesn’t involve water (if there is any of that left) or look to projects outside City limits.
    4. Find water totes to outfit your trucks and trailers with the ability to take advantage of water pumping and hauling options.
    5. Educate customers about alternative methods to assist with watering with non-potable water sources and the impacts they can have to keeping their landscape projects successful.
    6. Pray for enough rain for the plants, but not so much that any time is lost on work.

     

    Landscape Alberta is deeply concerned for the well-being of its Calgary based member companies and their employees’ livelihoods if they are unable to work through another round of stage 4 water restrictions.  The City of Calgary will essentially shut down an entire industry during one of the busiest points of the year, approximately 20% of all planting is done in September each year. 

    With immediate repairs required by the City of Calgary they have all but ended the landscape season for many in the area.   Nearly 50% of the 2024 landscape season will now be lost.  Most companies are reporting the need for widespread layoffs (40-60% of staff). 

    We are asking the Mayor Gondek, City Council, and staff to please find a solution that will keep us working to make Calgary a green place to live, work and play. 

    Landscape Alberta has requested the following main items: 

    1. The landscape industry be permitted to operate at Stage 3 rules regarding watering for establishment of new plants and for construction activities (i.e. pouring and cutting concrete)
    2. Remove all water restrictions ahead of shutdown to allow for increased watering schedules.
    3. Amend city inspection standards and practices to allow for projects to be completed this year. (thus, unlocking progress or completion payments that would otherwise be delayed 6 months)

    Resources

    Letter to Mayor Gondek

    Press Release – Calgary landscape industry is drowning

    Social Media Stories (Click to download or scroll to save images to your device)

    Call to Action one pager for print and display

    Change.org Petition https://chng.it/g552M9S4BQ Have your family, friends, staff, suppliers, customers sign this petition to show support for an industry on the verge of disaster.

     

    Message template: 

    Dear [Name], 

    My name is [Author Name], I work/own [XYZ Landscaping] in Calgary, AB.  We employee [123] people each year and as a small business collectively make up the heart of the Calgary economy.  This year has been very difficult with the ongoing water crisis.  News of a further ban on outdoor water use in September is devastating. 

    The inability to water new plantings for establishment or complete construction projects through September will have the following impacts on my company. 1) $ value or % of sales lost, 2) number of or % people to lay off 3) other impacts. 

    I encourage you to work with Landscape Alberta, the trade association for professional landscapers, to find a solution that will help save my business and the jobs of my peers and friends. 

    Sincerely,  

    [Author Name] 

    [Author Company] 

    What You Can Do

    City Contacts:

    Mayor Jyoti Gondek – themayor@calgary.ca 

    Ward 1 Sonya Sharp – sonya.sharp@calgary.ca 

    Ward 2 Jennifer Wyness – jennifer.wyness@calgary.ca 

    Ward 3 Jasmine Mian – jasmine.mian@calgary.ca 

    Ward 4 Sean Chu – sean.chu@calgary.ca 

    Ward 5 Raj Dhaliwal – raj.dhaliwal@calgary.ca 

    Ward 6 Richard Pootmans – richard.pootmans@calgary.ca 

    Ward 7 Terry Wong – terry.wong@calgary.ca 

    Ward 8 Courtney Walcott – courtney.walcott@calgary.ca 

    Ward 9 Gian-Carlo Carra – gian-carlo.carra@calgary.ca 

    Ward 10 Andre Chabot – andre.chabot@calgary.ca 

    Ward 11 Kourtney Penner – kourtney.penner@calgary.ca 

    Ward 12 Evan Spencer – evan.spencer@calgary.ca 

    Ward 13 Dan McLean – dan.mclean@calgary.ca 

    Ward 14 Peter Demong – peter.demong@calgary.ca