The ALCC, along with our partners at GreenCO, NALP, and CRPA Coalition, have been heavily engaged in the pesticide local control bill (HB 1178). The bill has been treading water for the last month on the House calendar, but we've gotten word that the sponsors may be preparing to run it within the next day or two. We know that all of you have done a lot of advocacy over the past months – and it's made a huge difference – and now we're hoping you can continue to speak up and help us stop this bill.

We have a 60-second action alert below, plus an additional 10-minute option if you have a little more time to give. Any emails or calls you can make are incredibly helpful!

Also, please forward on to colleagues and others in your organization who may be interested. Thank you!

Action Alert #1 – 60 seconds

Our friends at the National Pest Management Association have created this action alert tool. Just enter your info and it will send an email to your specific House Representative.

Click here now to complete the email action alert!

Action Alert #2 – 10 minutes

Below is a list of some of the legislators that we are hoping will vote NO on HB 1178. If you can reach out to some/all of them via phone and/or email, that would be terrific. 

Your message doesn't have to be long – in fact, it's probably more effective if it is short. You can feel free to grab any of the talking points on the attached fact sheet. The most important thing is to tell them that you are a Colorado resident, you are directly impacted by this bill, and you want them to vote NO on HB 1178.

Rep. Chad Clifford

[email protected]

303-866-5510

Rep. Leslie Herod

[email protected]

303-866-2959

Rep. Alex Valdez

[email protected]

303-866-2925

Rep. Marc Snyder

[email protected]

303-866-2932

Rep. Judy Amabile

[email protected]

303-866-2578

Rep. Jennifer Parenti

[email protected]

303-866-2924

Rep. Mary Young

[email protected]

303-866-2929

Rep. Bob Marshall

[email protected]

303-866-2936

Rep. Naquetta Ricks

[email protected]

303-866-2944

Rep. Julia Marvin

[email protected]

303-866-2918

Majority Leader Monica Duran

[email protected]

303-866-5522

Speaker Julie McCluskie

[email protected]

303-866-2952

More Info here! 

The landscape industry in Colorado is facing a pivotal moment as the 2024 legislative session gets under way, with several bills introduced that directly affect the industry. Among the key highlights to date are Senate Bill 24-005 focusing on turf replacement, House Bill 24-1178 addressing pesticide regulation and Senate Bill 24-106 concerning construction defects.

The sheer volume of bills introduced— nearly 500—underscores the breadth and complexity of issues facing the landscape industry and the broader community. As the session unfolds, stakeholders must navigate this complex and evolving regulatory landscape, remaining vigilant, engaged and proactive in advocating for their interests. By working collaboratively with policymakers, advocacy groups and other stakeholders, ALCC/GreenCO is working to shape policies that promote sustainability, innovation and resilience in Colorado’s built and natural environments.

Turf replacement in recent years, turf replacement initiatives have gained traction across Colorado as part of efforts to conserve water resources and promote sustainable landscaping practices. While proponents applaud the environmental benefits of reducing water usage and increasing biodiversity, others in the landscape industry express concerns about potential economic impacts, fearing that turf replacement programs could negatively affect businesses specializing in lawn care and maintenance, leading to job losses and reduced revenue. Senate Bill 24-005 has emerged as a centerpiece of discussions surrounding water conservation and sustainable landscaping practices. The bill aims to incentivize replacing traditional turf grass with drought-tolerant alternatives, such as xeriscaping and native vegetation. Proponents argue that reducing turf grass can significantly decrease water usage, mitigate urban heat island effects and promote biodiversity, providing both environmental and economic benefits. However, questions remain about the practical implementation of turf replacement initiatives and the potential impact on property values and aesthetics. Stakeholders are engaging in robust debates to ensure the bill strikes the right balance between conservation goals and industry needs, emphasizing the importance of finding a middle ground that supports both environmental sustainability and the economic viability of the landscape industry.

Pesticide use The use of pesticides in landscaping continues to be a contentious issue in Colorado as stakeholders grapple with questions of public health, environmental impact and regulatory oversight. The landscape industry argues that pesticides are essential tools for controlling pests and maintaining plant health, particularly in commercial and large-scale landscaping projects. Balancing these competing interests requires a nuanced approach that considers the latest scientific research, stakeholder input and regulatory frameworks.

House Bill 24-1178 aims to strengthen regulations governing pesticide use in landscaping and agricultural activities. The bill seeks to enhance protections for public health and the environment by imposing stricter guidelines on pesticide application, monitoring and reporting. Proponents argue that tighter regulations are necessary to mitigate the adverse effects of pesticide exposure on human health, wildlife and ecosystems while also promoting alternative pest management strategies and reducing reliance on conventional pesticides.

However, stakeholders within the landscape industry express strong concerns about the potential impact on pest control efficacy, operational costs and regulatory compliance, highlighting the need for careful consideration and collaboration in addressing these complex issues.

Construction defects Construction defects are a critical issue for the landscape industry, particularly in the context of residential and commercial developments. Senate Bill 106 seeks to streamline the construction defect litigation process, enhance consumer protections and create a more conducive environment for development projects.

However, stakeholders—including contractors, developers and homeowners—offer diverse perspectives on the potential impacts of the proposed legislation. Finding consensus on issues such as liability, warranty provisions and dispute resolution mechanisms will be essential to advancing meaningful reforms that benefit all stakeholders, ensuring a fair and efficient framework for addressing construction defects in Colorado’s landscape industry.

Get involved The ALCC/GreenCO Legislative Committee has already reviewed over 20 pieces of legislation, exemplifying our proactive stance in addressing the landscape industry’s concerns. As the legislative session unfolds over the next 90 days, member involvement becomes paramount in shaping the outcomes of pivotal bills and advocating for our industry’s interests.

Active engagement with policymakers, providing input and staying informed about legislative developments are crucial steps members can take to influence the future of the landscape industry in Colorado. By collaborating and advocating together, we can navigate the intricacies of the legislative process and promote policies that foster sustainability, innovation and prosperity for all stakeholders.

For inquiries or further information, members are encouraged to reach out to ALCC/ GreenCO at [email protected].

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:

2024 ALCC scholarship recipients announced

Day on the Hill 

GreenCo reps attend Day on the Hill to advocate for a brighter tomorrow

On March 20, Green Industries of Colorado (GreenCo) representatives attended Colorado Day on the Hill, an important opportunity to meet and hear from Colorado legislators and other state officials and a key event to show GreenCO's strength and support for lobbying activities.

“This event is to let our members know how to pull legislators off the floor and what to discuss with them. Many legislators are educated here on who we are and what we do,” says Stefan Stathopolos of Hicks & Associates.

The industry’s active participation in advocacy can make all the difference. ALCC-GreenCO’s annual visit to the Colorado Capitol presents a crucial opportunity to join forces with like-minded professionals and champion our industry’s interests. ALCC and its GreenCO partners are actively working on several key issues, including pesticides, turf replacement and small gas engine conversion, that could impact your business.

“It is crucial for small and large companies to be involved,” says ALCC CEO John McMahon, who gave a briefing on  legislation impacting landscape businesses in Colorado. Many small businesses are concerned about HB24-1178, which would layer more than 100 local regulations on top of existing state laws regulating pesticide application.

“ALCC offers members a chance to show up en masse and advocate for the green industry, while connecting directly with representatives, to keep our state's garden and landscape interests at the forefront of policy decisions,” says ALCC member Ellen Becker, founder of Floral Culture. “We look forward to more opportunities to represent green interest and participate in a meaningful way in further industry development. Moving forward, we would like to continue to see a strong presence by our GreenCO lobbyists on Capitol Hill and support their efforts to keep lawmakers abreast of the challenges we face in the industry. Pesticide regulation, as well as, work visa complications and water restrictions, have a direct impact on the services we provide to our clients.”

Together, we can drive positive change and ensure a vibrant future for our industry.

Here's why your involvement is paramount:

1. Empowerment Through Education: Dive deep into the legislative process and gain invaluable insights into how policies are shaped. Arm yourself with the knowledge to effectively advocate for the issues that matter most to GreenCO.

2. Direct Engagement with Decision-makers: Your voice matters, and this event offers a direct line of communication with legislators. Seize the opportunity to express your concerns, share your expertise and influence decision-making at the highest level.

3. Strategic Preparation for Impact: We'll provide comprehensive briefing materials and equip you with persuasive talking points on current bills. Be prepared to make a compelling case for the changes our industry needs.

4. Experience Democracy in Action: Step into the chambers and witness firsthand the legislative process at work. By observing the Senate or House in action, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving policy decisions.

5. Collaboration and Networking: Connect with fellow advocates and industry leaders who share your commitment to advancing our collective interests. Forge alliances, share best practices and amplify our impact through unified action.

6. Exclusive Access to Decision-makers: Enjoy a box lunch while engaging in meaningful conversations with legislators who are dedicated to addressing the concerns of GreenCO members. Your insights and perspectives are invaluable in shaping future policies.

Save the Date: H-2B Fly-in

ALCC will join NALP on May 21 and May 22 in Washington, D.C., for our annual “fly-in.” Colorado’s landscape community needs to meet with its representatives to keep the pressure on. There are many new staffers we need to educate, and our representatives need to understand that labor shortages continue in Colorado. Please save the date and let ALCC know if you plan to attend. 

This fly-in will be very similar to those in the past. We will provide you with lots of information, and ALCC will schedule meetings for you. More details will be provided as the date gets closer.

Tuesday, May 21

• 5-7 p.m.: Drinks (location TBD)
• Dinner on own *we will organize dine arounds upon request)

Wednesday, May 22

• 7-8:30 a.m.: Breakfast and briefing (location TBD)
• 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.: Congressional visits on the Hill

We will do our best not to book meetings past 3 p.m. so you can fly home in the evening. We want to minimize your time away from your company and family, but this is a crucial time to advocate for H-2B reforms.

This is a free event, but you do need to cover your expenses for hotel and transportation to Washington, D.C. We will provide drinks on Tuesday and breakfast on Wednesday morning, we will be providing breakfast in the morning. 

For more information, reach out to John McMahon, [email protected]. 

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:

2024 ALCC scholarship recipients announced

Turf replacement, pesticides  and construction defects top  2024 legislative agenda

Todd Williams Scholarship - CHRIS GRAHAM - Chris Graham is a senior at Colorado State University, majoring in Environmental Horticulture with a specialization in Landscape Design and Contracting. Graham is the treasurer and engagement coordinator for the Student Organization of Landscape Design and Contracting (SOLDAC). He has competed in the National Collegiate Landscaping Competition for the past two years and has worked with teams who have designed spaces within the City of Castle Rock and the Gardens on Spring Creek in Fort Collins. Graham is interested in working in residential design/build upon graduating.

Save the Date and Book Your Room – H-2B Fly in

ALCC will be joining NALP on May 21 and May 22 in Washington D.C. for our annual “fly-in”. It is vital for Colorado’s landscape community to meet with its’ representatives to keep the pressure on! There are many new staffers we need to educate and our representatives need to understand the labor shortages continue in Colorado. Please save the date and make plans accordingly. 

This fly-in will be very similar to those in the past.  For new folks, we will provide you with lots of information.  Also, ALCC will be scheduling these meetings for you so there is no need for you to worry about that.  Here is the anticipated timeline and more details will come as the date gets closer. Please let me know if you plan to attend.

Tuesday May 21st

• 5:00 – 7:00 pm Drinks (Location TBD)
• Dinner on Own, we will organize dine arounds upon request.

Wednesday May 22^nd

• 7:00 – 8:30 am Breakfast and Briefing (Location TBD)
• 8:30 – 4:00 Congressional Visits on the Hill

We will do our best to not book meetings past 3:00 so that you can fly home in the evening.  We want to minimize your time away from your Company and Family, but this is a crucial time to advocate for H-2B reforms.  This is a free event to attend; however, you do need to cover your own expenses for your hotel and transportation to DC.  We will provide you with drinks on Tuesday so you can meet other folks in the industry.  On Wednesday morning, we will be providing breakfast the morning of along with a briefing to prepare you for your meetings on the Hill.

We have a room block reserved for you at the Hamilton Hotel for a rate of $329 per night.  We only have 50 rooms available so if you plan to attend, please use the link to book your hotel quickly.  If we run out of rooms, we will try our best to either expand our room block or look for other nearby hotels.

Reserve your room with this link - Hamilton Hotel Washington DC - Reservations - Room Availability (synxis.com)

Residential Design/Build — Over $500K Designscapes Colorado | Kianna Creek Ranch, Sedalia

The design for this semi-sustainable working 200-acre ranch incorporated a newly remodeled home, an in-law home, historic barns and a newly constructed barn, a riding area, a round pin, Sedalia’s original homestead, and an existing seasonal pond. The landscape designer was challenged with connecting the ranch with a neighboring property to create one collective ranch, which entailed designing fields to rotate cattle and livestock.

A commercial-grade irrigation system that includes holding tanks and a cistern uses well water to irrigate 2 acres of lawn and gardens surrounding the main house. Stepstone paths lead to the stables, spa and sunken trampoline in one direction and to the chicken coop and orchard in the other. Vegetation and fencing make the house feel like part of the ranch while providing a safe space for the family’s four children.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:

Save the Date - H-2B Fly in

Sungari redbead cotoneaster shrub

2023 ELITE Awards Honors Landscape Projects in Colorado

Very Exciting!  ALCC ELITE Awards has been featured in Colorado Homes & Lifestyle Magazine!  Read article here...

2023 ELITE Awards Honors Landscape Projects in Colorado - Colorado Homes & Lifestyles (coloradohomesmag.com)

SunGari redbead cotoneaster is a versatile shrub requiring minimal maintenance

Ctoneaster racemiflorus var. soongoricus is a versatile, durable and adaptable large arching deciduous shrub that will reduce your yard maintenance and look beautiful at the same time. The toughest cotoneaster available, it can be planted as a windbreak on the plains or as a casual hedge row to disguise a neighbor’s fence.

In mid-May, you will enjoy masses of half-inch white flower clusters tucked among ovate- shaped, army green leaves. And the bees will be buzzing.

Designers love to use this plant in smaller yards and south- or west-facing courtyards. It will a add a level of interest that active gardeners strive to achieve. Trained into a multistem ornamental tree, the 8-foot-tall size fits nicely under the eaves of a house or elegantly over a split rail fence. The graceful arching branches will crown a magical spot with basal plantings of flax, foxglove, primrose or golden storksbill. Let these low-maintenance perennials reveal their flowers and fall color for the full magical effect.

Redbead’s adaptability means this cotoneaster grows nicely in all the heat and wind that can occur on three sides of a house. It will not look pleasant on the shady north side of any tall solid structure, though it will probably live. After the leaves turn a prosaic yellow brown in the fall, they drop quickly, revealing why it’s called redbead. Small, bright red quarter-inch fruit will hang onto the branches until you pull the holiday lights off in January. Redbead is not as messy as you might surmise. The birds do a good job of gobbling up berries as they ripen. This is a perfect plant for all demanding steppe climates. Read more in our winter magazine issue.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green Now:

Save the Date - H-2B Fly in

Designscapes Colorado Wins Gold ELITE Award

Act Now: Advocate for protection of your company at GreenCO’s Annual Hill Visit March 20th!

Your active participation in advocacy can make all the difference. ALCC-GreenCO's Annual Hill Visit at the state capitol on March 20th, from approximately 8:30 a.m. until lunchtime, presents a crucial opportunity for you to join forces with like-minded professionals and champion the interests of our industry. There are several key issues including pesticides, turf replacement, small gas engine conversion and others that could impact your business that ALCC and it’s GreenCO partners are actively working on. Here is a recent report (add Hicks and Assoc report) and real-time bills that are being tracked: https://app.coloradocapitolwatch.com/bill-tracker-votes/0/1550/2024/0/

Here's why your involvement is paramount:

1. Empowerment Through Education: Dive deep into the legislative process and gain invaluable insights into how policies are shaped. Arm yourself with knowledge to effectively advocate for the issues that matter most to GreenCO.
2. Direct Engagement with Decision-Makers: Your voice matters, and this event offers a direct line of communication with legislators. Seize the opportunity to express your concerns, share your expertise, and influence decision-making at the highest level.
3. Strategic Preparation for Impact: We'll provide comprehensive briefing materials and equip you with persuasive talking points on current bills. Be prepared to make a compelling case for the changes our industry needs.
4. Experience Democracy in Action: Step into the chambers and witness firsthand the legislative process at work. By observing the Senate or House in action, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving policy decisions.
5. Collaboration and Networking: Connect with fellow advocates and industry leaders who share your commitment to advancing our collective interests. Forge alliances, share best practices, and amplify our impact through unified action.
6. Exclusive Access to Decision-Makers: Enjoy a box lunch while engaging in meaningful conversations with legislators who are dedicated to addressing the concerns of GreenCO members. Your insights and perspectives are invaluable in shaping future policies.

Together, we can drive positive change and ensure a vibrant future for our industry. To secure your place, please RSVP by emailing John McMahon at [email protected].

Don't miss this opportunity to be a catalyst for progress. Join us as we advocate for a brighter tomorrow.

Through GreenCO, ALCC advocates for members and the industry at the state legislature. 

The following policy issues will be closely monitored by GreenCO lobbyists on behalf of ALCC during the 2024 session. There will be additional issues that will come up, and these will be identified by ALCC representatives in the GreenCO Legislative Committee meetings. (Follow them in real time at https://coloradocapitolwatch.com/bill-tracker-votes/0/1550/2021/0/) 

The landscape industry in Colorado is facing a pivotal moment as the 2024 legislative session gets underway, with numerous bills introduced, including several that directly affect the industry. Among the key highlights to date are Senate Bill 24-005 focusing on turf replacement, House Bill 24-1178 addressing pesticide regulation, and Senate Bill 24-106 concerning construction defects. Additionally, the sheer volume of bills introduced—nearly 500—underscores the breadth and complexity of issues facing the landscape industry and the broader community. As the session unfolds, stakeholders must navigate this complex and evolving regulatory landscape, remaining vigilant, engaged, and proactive in advocating for their interests. By working collaboratively with policymakers, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders, the ALCC/GreenCO are working to shape policies that promote sustainability, innovation, and resilience in Colorado's built and natural environments.

The Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) is poised to take final action on the Small Engine Rules in February, 2024. These rules hold particular significance for the landscaping industry, as they pertain to the use of equipment and machinery integral to landscaping operations. As such, landscapers must closely monitor the development of these rules and understand their potential implications on equipment usage and operational practices.

Legislative Update: HB24-1178, introduced in the Colorado House of Representatives, presents a significant shift towards local control in pesticide regulation within the landscaping industry. The bill prioritizes empowering local communities to enact stricter oversight and accountability measures concerning pesticide usage, particularly in outdoor spaces. By granting municipalities and counties greater authority, HB24-1178 is not supported by ALCC/GreenCO.

On the other hand, SB24-005, titled the "Water Conservation and Landscaping Practices Act," represents a significant effort to promote sustainable water usage in outdoor spaces across Colorado. Introduced concurrently in the Colorado Senate, SB24-005 proposes measures to incentivize water-efficient landscaping techniques and establish guidelines for the use of drought-tolerant plants, mulching practices, and smart irrigation systems.

Through rebates, tax incentives, and other incentives, the bill aims to encourage property owners and landscaping professionals to adopt environmentally conscious landscaping practices, contributing to water conservation efforts in the state.

HB24-1008 Wage Claims Construction Industry Contractors Bill Description: Concerning measures to expand general contractor accountability for wage claims involving contractors in the construction industry. GreenCO- Opposes

HB24-1014-Decptive Trade Practices Bill Description: Concerning the elimination of a judicially created requirement that a significant number of consumers be harmed before remedies may be available under the "Colorado Consumer Protection Act" GreenCO-Opposes

HB24-1041- Streamline Filing Sales & Use Tax Returns Bill Description: Concerning the streamlining of processes for filing sales and use tax returns.GreenCO- Monitor

HB24-1083 Construction Professional Insurance Coverage Transparency Bill Description: Concerning insurance coverage for construction professionals. GreenCO Opposed as Introduced

HB24-1178 Local Government Authority to Regulate Pesticides Bill Description: Concerning local government authority to regulate pesticides. GreenCO Opposes

SB24-005 Prohibit Landscaping Practices for Water Conservation Bill Description: Concerning the conservation of water in the state through the prohibition of certain landscaping practices. GreenCO Amending

SB24-023 Hold Harmless for Error in GIS Database Data Bill Description: Concerning the requirement that local taxing jurisdictions hold harmless vendors that rely on erroneous data in certain electronic systems related to sales and use tax that are managed by the department of revenue. GreenCO Monitoring

SB24-025 pdate Local Government Sales & UseTax Collection Bill Description: Concerning local government sales and use taxes administered by the department of revenue, and, in connection therewith, revising, modernizing, and harmonizing various state statues relating to the state-administration of local sales and use tax into one uniform statute. GreenCO Monitoring

SB24-081 Perfluoroalkyl & Polyfluoroalkyl Chemicals Bill Description: Concerning measures to increase protections from perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals. GreenCO Is Reviewing Bill

SB24-100 Commercial Vehicle Highway Safety Measures Bill Description: Concerning commercial vehicle safety measures on Colorado highways. GreenCO is reviewing.

SB24-106 Right to Remedy Construction Defects Bill Description: Concerning legal actions based on claimed defects in construction projects. GreenCO is reviewing-Suggesting Support Position.