So we got together here at LCN and put a few items down on paper. Items that we think will lead the discussions in the year ahead for the business of landscape construction.

As such, if you see a particular subject you would like to see more of or that you wish to get your two cents in on, please feel free to contact LCN and let us know what you are thinking. If we missed a topic, let us know that as well . . .

While some of the topics are as hot in the mainstream as they are in the business, I doubt you will hear the big names out there adding all of these topics to their stump speeches . . . Although maybe, just maybe they should . . .

First of all there is the issue of Immigration.

Many of you read earlier comments in this section challenging the ANLA for its stance on immigration regulations. I do have to say that after the second article I received a well-thought-out letter from ANLA president Bob Dolibois. While there is not room to discuss the content in this month?EUR??,,????'???s column, rest assured that this topic will continue to be at the forefront of the business and the minds of the country.

The next hot topic would be Water.

Remember, as the big names run for the presidency, there will be a horde of smaller names running for this and that around your state. It will be important to make sure they know about the leadership role Landscape Contractors are taking in conserving this precious resource, all the while helping to keep the planet green.

And what about Workers Comp?

Are your candidates even familiar with the burden workers comp puts on your bottom line and how illegal immigration and unlicensed contractors are winning jobs by avoiding this massive business expense? They should be.
In a recent survey by LCN we found that workers comp ranged from around $.07 per dollar in one state to more than $.30 for landscape contractors in others. Whether this is a national issue or a state issue is up for debate, but when your payroll jumps by 30% just for a little insurance and there is no enforcement on those who get around the laws . . . Let?EUR??,,????'???s just say this a definitely a hot topic your elected officials should know about . . .

Which brings us to Licensure for Landscape Contractors.

Only some states require licensure for landscape contractors yet many LC?EUR??,,????'???s across the country are looking to get the profession on the map.

Landscape Architects are one state away from licensure in all 50 states. Of course, you need a license to apply pesticides almost everywhere. Should you be licensed to build landscapes? Does it affect the public?EUR??,,????'???s Health, Safety and Welfare? Would it add a level of professionalism and consumer protection to the business? What do the politicians say?

And while the politicians are moving their lips anyways, how do they feel about allowing landscape professionals the Use of Pesticides to kill those pesky tree-eating bugs?

Sure DDT made a few hawk eggs brittle, but it sure kept the pests away . . . Now, almost as soon as a chemical is released someone is reasoning that it should be bottled up and stored away . . . Is this an issue of laissez-faire, environmentalism or just politics as usual?

Maybe it?EUR??,,????'???s a matter that OSHA should look into . . .

Is your candidate on your side or on the side of your employees? Whose side are you on? Is OSHA part of the neo-Nazis or are they serving a purpose in protecting you and your crew? Some think their power has exceeded their grasp of reality, other see OSHA as the Grand Poobah of safety . . .

Well these are just a few of the issues affecting your trade in the year(s) ahead. The point is that whatever issues you feel most strongly about, now is a great time to bring them into the realm of public discussion. One of the great things about America is that we get to vote and who knows what promises will be given to get your votes . . .

Just some food for thought . . . Or to choke on . . .

?EUR??,,????'??+God Bless