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Author: Kyla Hardon

Phishing Alert

Over the last several weeks there have been a series of industry members that have had their emails compromised and sent out wide reaching phishing emails regarding "Bid Submission" and or "Project Details" that include a link for more information.  This will likely come from a well known contact - please call (do not email back - if the scammer has email access they will set up replies to legitimize the request) and Delete the email without clicking on anything.   This appears to be a well targeted approach that relies on using existing contacts and preying on busy small business types.  Please be alert and if you're not sure, pickup the phone and verify with the company/contact. 

Skills Alberta Returns

After several years without fielding a team in Alberta, we are excited to announce that we are once again preparing to compete in the Skills Canada provincial event. This year, not only have we assembled a team of age‑eligible competitors, but they are also being supported by instructors from the Landscape Horticulturist Apprenticeship Program at Olds College, along with an exceptional group of industry coaches.
The team will hold regular training sessions throughout February and March, leading up to the final competition, which will take place in the Landscape Pavilion at Olds College on March 28–29.
We invite industry partners to attend the competition days to gain a deeper understanding of the Skills movement and to help build support for future participation. We are also seeking donations of materials and supplies, as well as financial contributions to help cover catering for the team and coaches. If you’re interested in supporting the Skills Alberta team, please contact Lisa Brick at lisa.brick@landscape-alberta.com.
Team Alberta will compete at the national Skills Canada event in Toronto, ON from May 27–29. With this renewed momentum, our goal is to return permanently to the main Skills Alberta competition each year in early May. While timing can be challenging for our industry, the opportunity to connect with more than 10,000 youth who are exploring careers in the skilled trades is invaluable. Being present at this annual event ensures we are represented as a trade of choice for youth and parents alike.
Our industry offers incredible career pathways and meaningful, rewarding work—we simply need to help teachers, parents, and young people connect the dots. Skills Alberta (Skills Canada) is a powerful way to do this. We encourage you to get involved; together, we can be the strongest ambassadors for our industry.

City of Calgary Water Updates: 2026

April 2, 2026

Stage 4 water restrictions have been lifted!

There will be a planned pipe inspection from April 9 to 11, where a mechanical device called a pipe diver will be placed in part of the feeder main to assess its condition. Crews will have to briefly stop water flow to remove the pipe diver, and then conduct water quality testing before restarting the pumps.

Because of the short duration of this work, the City does not expect water restrictions to be needed. However, this could change if unexpected issues arise.

Even though the reinforcement work is complete, there is still a risk of failure until the new parallel pipe is in place. There will also be another planned feeder main shutdown this fall as the City brings the new replacement pipe online.

Timelines for the planned shutdown have not yet been confirmed. As planning continues and schedules are finalized, we will share information as early as possible so there is time to prepare.

We would like to thank the City of Calgary for engaging with Landscape Alberta ahead of the planned spring repairs and for considering our recommendations on the shutdown timeline to help minimize impacts on our industry. We look forward to continuing this collaborative approach as planning moves ahead for the fall shutdown, working together to establish a timeline that results in the least possible disruption to our industry.

March 30, 2026

Water demand status

  • Water demand has been consistently in the green zone, under 500 million litres (ML) each day.
    • Yesterday, demand was 500 ML, even as approximately 12 ML was used to refill the feeder main. This reflects continued strong water saving efforts by residents, businesses and neighbouring communities.
  • As crews move through the final steps to return the feeder main to service, the system remains constrained and continued water conservation is still essential.

Progress update

  • We are now entering the final stages of this work.
  • Crews successfully finished filling the feeder main and teams are sampling and testing the water today to ensure it meets all regulatory standards.
  • While reinforcement work improves stability in targeted sections, the existing feeder main remains an aging asset and will continue to carry risk until a replacement pipe is in place.
  • There is increased risk during upcoming pressure changes as pumps are restarted and water flow is gradually increased, which is expected to begin tomorrow morning.
  • People across the water system may notice temporary cloudiness in their water. This is expected, and the water remains safe to drink.
  • If system performance remains stable, water restrictions could be lifted as early as Thursday, April 2.
  • Site restoration is continuing, with concrete curb work complete and paving beginning today.

Looking ahead

  • As part of planning for the new replacement pipe, an inspection is scheduled for April 9 -11 to assess a steel section of the feeder main. We will use a mechanical inspection device called a pipe diver, and will need to shut down the flow of water to the feeder main temporarily to retrieve the pipe diver once the inspection is complete.
  • This work is expected to proceed without water restrictions, though there remains a possibility that temporary restrictions could be required on short notice if conditions change.

For awareness

  • Rain barrel rebate program: As we move into spring, Calgarians may wish to consider options like rain barrels to reduce outdoor water use. The City’s rain barrel rebate program opens Wednesday, April 1, offering up to $50 off an eligible purchase. Details are available at calgary.ca/rainbarrel.

March 27, 2026

Repair status and schedule

  • The project continues to progress as planned.
  • Surface preparation work for paving is underway, including base gravel installation for roads, berms and concrete curbs, with minimal impact from recent weather. \Traffic changes remain in place near active work areas. Drivers should continue to follow posted signage, expect delays and plan ahead when travelling through the area.

 Looking ahead

  • Filling activities on additional sections of the feeder main are planned to begin tomorrow, followed by water quality sampling, testing and regulatory clearance before reconnection to the system.
  • Paving at reinforcement work sites is expected to begin next week, weather permitting.
  • Preparatory work for the long-term replacement of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main is planned to begin next week along 16 Avenue N.W., with single lane closures in place during that work.
  • The next media availability is planned for Monday, March 30.

Key messages

  • Stage 4 Outdoor Water restrictions remain in effect, and we continue to ask everyone to reduce their indoor water use while reinforcement work continues.
  • Keeping overall water use in the “green zone”, below 500 million litres per day (MLD), remains critical until crews fully complete the reinforcement work.
  • We’re asking residents to continue saving water by focusing on a few simple, high impact actions:
  • Keep showers to three minutes or less
  • Flush toilets only when necessary
  • Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.

March 12, 2026

Water demand status  

  • Yesterday, total water demand was 489 million litres, once again putting us in the Green Zone where the drinking water system can meet demand with the feeder main out of service.
  • We thank everyone for their great work so far and ask them to continue water saving measures until the feeder main is back in service.

Repair status and schedule

  • Excavation continues across all work areas to prepare pipe segments for reinforcement.
  • Crews are installing trench boxes around exposed sections of pipe.
  • Draining water from one final section of pipe is planned to continue into the weekend.
  • Reinforcement construction continues to be on schedule.  

Looking ahead 

  • Continued water conservation is critical to maintain system stability while relying primarily on the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant.
  • Daily monitoring and updates will continue as excavation progresses and reinforcement work ramps up.

Stage 4 Outdoor Water restrictions are currently in effect and we’re asking everyone to reduce their indoor water use while reinforcement work is underway on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main.  

March 9, 2026

Stage 4 Survival Guide for Landscapers
This guide is to offer suggestions for what you can do as a business owner to plan for expected and unexpected restrictions.

Landscape Alberta - Stage_4_Survival_Guide

March 2, 2026

Message from City of Calgary:

The City of Calgary is moving forward with planned reinforcement repairs to support the stability of the current Bearspaw South Feeder Main (BSFM). This work will target up to nine segments of the existing pipe to support operations and stability.

Due to the critical condition of the BSFM and its importance in Calgary’s drinking water system, the City is reinforcing sections of pipe that are experiencing enhanced levels of deterioration. These reinforcements are intended to support continued operation of the BSFM until the new parallel steel pipe is completed and can take over service from the current line.

Water restrictions will be in place beginning March 9

The feeder main will be taken out of service to complete construction. During this time, it’s critical that all Calgarians and the surrounding regions use less water. Outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation will be in effect starting March 9 and is expected to last approximately four weeks. No outdoor water use will be permitted during this time. We also anticipate restrictions will be needed again when we tie in the new parallel pipe.

Outside of the reinforcement work, other scenarios outside of The City’s control, including another break in the feeder main or weather-related conditions such as drought or heat waves, may necessitate implementing outdoor water restrictions at any time.

We recognize the urgency of these issues and their potential economic impact. Until the pipe is fully twinned, it remains at risk of failure. Homes, businesses and yards should be ready for Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions and voluntary indoor conservation at any time.

Bylaw Updates
Since the first break in 2024, The City has been connecting directly with industries that rely on outdoor water use to better understand the impacts of water restrictions. We heard about possible solutions that reduce reliance on treated water in construction and irrigation, and about key timing windows during which critical activities occur for these industries. In response to the concerns raised, we made updates to outdoor restrictions in 2024 to support the landscaping industry and others. Most importantly, we amended the Water Utility Bylaw in 2025 to create exemptions for watering new trees, sod and seed during their respective establishment periods from the earlier stages of outdoor watering restrictions.

Resources
• Updates on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main Improvements Project can be found www.calgary.ca/bsfmreinforcements

• For timely updates on water restrictions, please keep an eye on www.calgary.ca/savewater

• There are many ways you can conserve water without compromising safety or quality. Please check out our resource library at www.calgary.ca/savewateratwork

Read the letter here (includes links to all resources mentioned in message).

February 20, 2026

Timeline & Duration

  • Work begins: March 9
  • Duration: Approximately 4 weeks
  • Expected to last into early April
  • Restrictions anticipated to be lifted before peak watering season
  • A planned shutdown is also expected in the fall (dates TBD)
  • Final detailed plan to be released soon

Why March?

  • Scheduled for spring when river flow is high
  • High snowpack improves water availability
  • March considered the ideal time to reduce risk to the system

What’s Happening

  • The Bearspaw South Feeder Main will be shut down for reinforcement.
  • 9–10 pipe segments will receive targeted repairs, focusing on priority risk areas.
  • Up to 10 targeted reinforcements planned this spring.
  • Pipe is considered critically vulnerable and could fail at any time.
  • There is no guarantee additional breaks won’t happen.
  • Construction on the replacement pipe is underway now, including micro-tunneling, with full replacement expected by fall/December.

Water Restrictions (March 9 – Early April)

Outdoor Use

  • Region-wide outdoor water ban
  • No lawn watering, irrigation, or other outdoor water use permitted.

Indoor Use

  • Residents asked to reduce indoor use by 30%.
  • City-wide water target: 485 million litres per day.
  • Exceeding this threshold puts the entire system at risk.

Ongoing Risk

  • The feeder main is described as “critically ill.”
  • Residents should be prepared for restrictions at any time, even outside planned shutdown periods.
  • Additional emergency breaks remain possible.

Additional Updates

  • Rain barrel rebate program returns April 1 (YardSmart rain barrels)
  • Replacement construction is progressing, aiming for completion by fall 2026.

Landscape Alberta is working with City officials to answer frequent questions and will have more information available at the Leadership Forum in-person event: https://www.landscape-alberta.com/events/leadership-forum/.

 

February 18, 2026

Communication has been ongoing with the City of Calgary about the impacts of water restrictions in the 2026 season.  A task force of members met with City officials last week.  Exact timelines aren’t available at this time, but the phrase “weeks not months” was used throughout the session.  We are working with City official to answer frequent questions and will have more information available at the Leadership Forum in-person event: https://www.landscape-alberta.com/events/leadership-forum/.

 

January 16, 2026

We are pleased to inform you that the Bearspaw South Feeder Main has returned to service, and following careful monitoring, all water restrictions are now lifted effective immediately.

Over the past two weeks, The City of Calgary implemented Stage Four water restrictions to reduce water demand while crews completed the repairs.  Thanks to the cooperation and conservation efforts of all our customers, including yourself, we were able to stabilize the system safely and efficiently.

Key Points for Your Operations:

  • System Stability: Water has been tested and meets or exceeds all regulatory guidelines for safe drinking water.
  • Normal Operations Resumed: You may now resume normal water usage, including refilling processes such as pools or industrial operations, without the need to stagger or limit flows.
  • Temporary Water Quality Changes: You may notice temporary cloudiness or a stronger chlorine smell in water immediately after the feeder main return-to-service. Both are normal, safe, and should resolve with regular use. If issues persist after 24 hours, contact 311.
  • Planned Future Repairs: Additional pipe repair work is planned for this Spring and Fall, which will require further water restrictions. We will communicate early, so your operations can plan accordingly.
  • Unplanned Repairs:  If another break occurs - water restrictions will be required and we’ll need to count on your help again.

We sincerely appreciate your support in conserving water during this critical period. Your actions helped protect Calgary’s water system and ensure safe, reliable service for all residents and businesses.

For updates on Calgary’s water system, please visit calgary.ca/watermainbreak.

January 7, 2026

Calgary Water Main Break – what you need to know

On December 30th, the City of Calgary suffered another critical water main break.  Emergency repairs are underway with services to return to normal by mid-January.

Full-scale replacement of 6km of the feeder-main is set to begin in spring of 2026.  Currently there are no details on exact construction timelines, but Landscape Alberta has been in contact with the City of Calgary about next steps including additional info on timelines and impacts on industry through the 2026 season based on presumed conservation measures throughout the construction process.    Regular water updates will be provided to members as we approach spring.

Ongoing updates can be found here:  https://www.calgary.ca/emergencies/feeder-main-repair/bearspaw-water-main-break.html

Grow the Future of Garden Retail

Supporting the Future of Garden Retail Leadership

GCC introduces two funding opportunities designed to elevate leadership in Canada’s garden centre community.

Introducing the PLANT Forward Bursaries

Garden Centres Canada (GCC) is pleased to introduce the PLANT Forward Bursaries, two national programs created to support and advance professionals across the Canadian garden centre retail sector.

Future Leader Bursary

Provides up to $3,000 to candidates aged 40 or younger to attend the Garden Centres Canada Summit, supporting early-career professionals with exceptional promise.

Retail Leadership Bursary

Provides up to $7,000 for retail employees or owners who demonstrate outstanding leadership to attend the International Garden Centre Association Congress, an international forum for innovation, networking, and global best practices.

Rooted in the values of Professional Leadership Advancement and Networking for Talent, both bursaries provide recipients with opportunities to grow their careers through:

  • Professional development funding
  • Mentorship from experienced industry leaders
  • Access to GCC events, workshops, and national networks

Designed to help the next generation grow boldly and lead with purpose, these bursaries strengthen both individual career pathways and the long-term vitality of independent garden centres across Canada.

“The future of garden retail will be shaped by the individuals we empower today. The PLANT Forward Bursary is our commitment to supporting passionate, innovative professionals who will lead our industry forward.”
Robin Godfrey, Chair of Garden Centres Canada. 

The inaugural application period is now open. Full details, eligibility, and application guidelines are available at:
 https://www.cnla.ca/news/plant-forward-bursery-announce

For retailers looking to encourage internal talent or nominate rising leaders, these bursaries offer a meaningful opportunity to invest in your team and in the future of our industry.

[ APPLY TODAY ]

Important message for the TFWP

The purpose of this communication is to remind you that, effective January 1, 2026, the Government of Canada will reinstate the requirement for employers to provide proof of advertising when submitting a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) application to hire temporary foreign workers for primary agriculture positions under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW Program).

Currently, employers submitting LMIA applications for primary agriculture positions on, or before, December 31, 2025, are exempt from providing proof of advertising requirements.

Effective January 1, 2026, employers will be required to meet all advertising requirements, including providing proof of recruitment efforts to hire Canadians and permanent residents, including members of at least 2 underrepresented groups in the labour market, such as:

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

Recruitment and advertising requirements differ between program streams. Records of the employers’ efforts must be kept for a minimum of 6 years.

You are encouraged to share this communication throughout your respective networks, and with any colleagues or peers who may need to be aware of this information. If you have questions on the TFW Program, please visit Canada.ca or reach out to the Employer Contact Centre.

GROWTH MATTERS

GROWTH MATTERS: Green Industry Show & Conference 2025 Reports Record-Breaking Success

Red Deer, AB – The Green Industry Show & Conference (GISC) 2025 concluded with remarkable success, solidifying its position as the premiere horticultural event in Western Canada. Favourable weather contributed to the enthusiastic atmosphere, allowing the industry to gather and connect in record setting numbers.

Key Performance Highlights

The 2025 event, hosted at Westerner Park in Red Deer, established new records across key metrics:

  • Attendance Record: GISC saw a substantial 8 percent year-over-year increase in attendance, reaching a final count of 1,726 visitors over the two-day event. This marks an all-time attendance record since the show's relocation to Red Deer in 2022, representing a more than 70 percent growth in visitors since moving to the new venue.
  • Exhibitor Expansion: The total number of participating organizations grew significantly from 110 to 128 in 2025, an impressive 16 percent increase, demonstrating strong industry confidence and engagement.
  • Conference Strength: The educational component was highly successful, with over 300 conference passes sold for the 24 sessions and two keynote speakers.
  • Fundraising Impact: The Landscape Alberta Nursery Producers Annual Dinner and Auction hosted a record number of guests, raising over $28,000 for ongoing research and education initiatives in Alberta.

Industry Momentum

GISC 2025 has once again proven to be a pivotal event for horticultural professionals in Western Canada, reflecting the industry's upward trajectory.

"When the weather cooperates like it did this year, it truly makes all the hard work that much more satisfying," says Joel Beatson, Landscape Alberta Executive Director. "GISC is recognized as one of the largest tradeshows for the horticulture industry in Canada and continues to expand robustly following pandemic interruptions. With so many new faces at GISC this year, the future of the Green Industry is surely bright."

The organizers extend their heartfelt gratitude to all exhibitors, participants, speakers, and sponsors for their unwavering support and vital contribution to the success of GISC 2025.

Looking Ahead

The Green Industry Show & Conference (GISC) 2026 will return to Westerner Park in Red Deer, Alberta, on November 18 & 19, 2026.

For more information, please contact: Landscape Alberta – Joel Beatson – joel.beatson@landscape-alberta.com or Direct: 587-404-1328.

Landscape Alberta 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.


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.

Your Ultimate Guide to GISC 2025

 🌿 Your Ultimate Guide to GISC 2025

Ready. Set. Grow.

Get ready to experience the largest horticultural trade show in Western Canada—GISC 2025 is back and bigger than ever! Held in the heart of the Prairies, this premier industry event is your gateway to growth, connection, and innovation.

Whether you're aiming to attract new clients, energize your team, or elevate your professional impact, GISC 2025 delivers the insights, tools, and inspiration to help you thrive.

🌟 What to Expect

  • 100+ Exhibitors showcasing the latest in landscape and horticulture
  • 25+ Educational Sessions led by industry thought leaders
  • 1500+ Attendees from across the green industry spectrum

This year’s theme, Ready. Set. Grow., reflects the dynamic momentum of our industry—from cutting-edge business strategies and safety culture to AI, sustainability, and the newest plant introductions. If you're looking to stay ahead of the curve, this is the place to be.

🎉 Can’t-Miss Social & Networking Events

Beyond the trade show floor, GISC 2025 offers four signature events designed to spark connections and celebrate our vibrant community:

🌱 Landscape Alberta Nursery Producers Auction

📍 Red Deer Resort & Casino
📅 Wednesday, November 12
Enjoy a lively evening of bidding and camaraderie at this annual favorite, featuring both live and silent auctions plus a delicious dinner.

🛻 The Tailgate Party

📍 Trade Show Floor Seating Area
📅 Thursday, November 13 at 4:00 PM
Grab a drink, enjoy some snacks, and mingle with fellow exhibitors in this relaxed, high-energy gathering.

🌸 AGGA Garden Party

📍 Red Deer Resort & Casino
Celebrate excellence in horticulture with food, drinks, and networking. Awards for Grower of the Year, Meritorious Service, and the Herb Knodel Award will be announced.

🍸 The After Party

📍 Garden Terrace Lounge, Red Deer Resort & Casino
Unwind after Day 1 with a drink and great company. It’s the perfect way to cap off a productive day.

💼 More Ways to Engage

  • Job Board: Post or explore career opportunities right on the trade show floor.
  • Passport Program: Visit participating exhibitors, collect stamps, and enter to win exciting prizes.
  • Continuing Education Credits: Earn CEUs for ISA, LHCP, and Pesticide Applicator Re-certification through select sessions.

🌍 Powered by Landscape Alberta

GISC is proudly managed by Landscape Alberta, a voluntary trade association committed to advancing the ornamental horticulture industry across Alberta and Canada.

Join the movement at GISC 2025. Connect with innovators, grow your vision, and help build the future of the green industry in Western Canada one professional at a time.

Alberta Youth Employment (AYE) Incentive Announced

September 11, 2025 - The Alberta Government today announced a new incentive program to help combat youth unemployment in Alberta. This partnership with Careers the Next Generation (a non-profit who will administer the funding) aims to create new youth focused roles in small businesses to ensure youth have a great start to their working careers.  For many, their first job is the one that teaches lessons of responsibility and consciousness.  The horticultural industry has a long history working with young people and teaching lessons for life (and love of plants and people).   In fact, the announcement was made at long-time member garden centre and landscape firm, Classic Landscape (Ellerslie Gift and Gardens) right here in Edmonton.  Our friend Perry Stothart spoke after the Premiere and Minister regarding the positive impacts a first job in horticultural has had on hundreds and hundreds of youth over the years.  (Way to go Perry and the Payne family!)
Program Overview for Eligible Businesses
The Alberta Youth Employment Incentive program provides financial assistance to registered for-profit businesses to hire young Albertans aged 16 to 24. This program is an excellent opportunity for small businesses to expand their workforce while significantly reducing hiring costs.
The funding structure is tiered based on the number of youth hired and the total hours they work:
A key benefit for businesses with multiple locations is that they can apply for the maximum funding for each location.
How Landscape, Greenhouse, and Horticultural Businesses Can Best Take Advantage
Businesses in these sectors are perfectly positioned to benefit from this program because they are registered for-profit businesses that are operational in Alberta. The seasonal nature of the work often requires a flexible and expanding workforce, making young, energetic talent an ideal fit.
To maximize the benefits, these businesses should:
Suggested Job Roles for Youth
The program highlights the benefits of youth employment, including their tech savviness, energy, and adaptability. Small businesses can leverage these qualities by creating entry-level and hands-on roles that also incorporate modern tools and systems.
In the landscape and horticultural industries, suitable jobs for youth could include:
For more info please visit - https://ayeincentive.ca/
We expect this program to be highly subscribed and as such are suggesting to apply early, even if the intent is to have positions start in 2026.