LASN's 40th Anniversary Issue takes readers back in time to 1985, when the first issue went to print, and traces the history of the magazine and its readers, culminating in a feature on what's next for the profession in the realm of technology.

The 40th Anniversary Issue of Landscape Architect & Specifier News is now available under the 'Resources' Tab on LandscapeArchitect.com! Follow the memories of George Schmok and LASN readers through milestones for the magazine, the profession, and the world over the last four decades.

Features

Start of LASN
Landscape Architect and Specifier News (LASN) was founded in 1985 as the growing importance of licensed Landscape Architects and an underserved market was being recognized. Fueled by early industry support and pioneering use of technology like the Macintosh and Adobe PageMaker, LASN rapidly grew into a respected publication that helped shape the profession. From humble beginnings to national circulation, the magazine has remained committed to informing, celebrating, and advancing the field of landscape architecture.

Learning About the Profession
When LASN started, the publisher and team had little knowledge of the profession but were quickly brought up to speed with connections to pioneers like Raymond Page, FASLA, and Don Roberts, FASLA. His journey included early exposure to the CLASS Fund, mentorship from influential professionals, and deep engagement with both the people and principles shaping the field. These experiences, along with pivotal trips to national parks and rapid adoption of new technologies, helped establish LASN as a publication grounded in the values and evolution of landscape architecture.

 

Trends in the Profession
As landscape architecture evolved from drought-driven xeriscaping to cutting-edge regenerative and biodiversity-focused design, Landscape Architects began embracing sustainability, smart irrigation, and integrated technologies. George reflects on these trends and the profession's growth, emphasizing that the real value of the landscape lies not only in environmental responsibility but in how people interact with it. From public parks to rooftops, the role of the Landscape Architect has expanded - placing people at the heart of every project.

Issues with ASLA
LASN and the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) have collaborated and clashed since day one, resulting in a decades-long relationship centered on disagreements over licensure, professional representation, and the direction of the profession. While LASN has proudly pushed for licensure and broad inclusion of all licensed Landscape Architects, ASLA's early resistance, internal politics, and shifting priorities have often clashed with that vision. Despite periods of productive collaboration, LASN continues to advocate for a development-focused, license-driven profession while urging ASLA to re-engage with the practical needs and growth of Landscape Architects.

Concerns, Observations, and Growth
LASN's longstanding mission is to elevate licensed Landscape Architects as leaders of development, not just stewards of green space. Though there are challengers to this view, landscape architecture must remain focused on human-centered, development-driven design in order to grow and maintain relevance. With new leadership taking the reins at LASN, the publication continues to champion professional licensure, technological innovation, and the evolving needs of the built environment.

The Future Technology Landscape
By Mike Dahl, LASN Contributing Editor
From physical drafts to computer renderings to AI the practice of landscape architecture has advanced dramatically over the last forty years, and there's more change to come.

Commentary
Welcome To The Next 40 Years!

Stewardship
St. Andrew School Tot Lot

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