OCTOBER 2025

Happy October! BIG NEWS! We are VERY excited to finally be able to share that we are officially launching the ColoradoScaping™ Certification program in 2026. The ALCC has been working with CSU Extension to build this program for the last 3 years. The program is set up to be an advanced credential that sets professionals apart in the industry as a whole. The program directly addresses feedback from companies about under-trained landscape professionals in the field and delivers hands-on, Colorado-specific training that proves proficiency in creating sustainable, water-efficient landscapes.

This program will not replace SLM or the Landscape Industry Certified Technician (LICT) program offered by NALP - both of those educational programs/certifications are valuable programs that serve a purpose. SLM is focused on sustainable maintenance practices and is suited for all levels of experience, including those new to the industry. LICT is more of a generalized certification that focuses on general landscape skill mastery, and is not climate specific. Coloradoscaping takes best practices and applies them to Colorado’s climate and is more appropriate for someone with 1-3 years of experience.

ColoradoScaping Certification will include 4 different modules: Planning and Design, Installation, Irrigation and Maintenance. Each training will be a combination of 20 hours of self-paced, on-demand modules with text, videos, and knowledge checks accessible via CSU’s online learning platform and 15 hours of in-person Hands-On-Training that includes skill demonstrations, participant practice, and evaluations.

I have always been a proponent of continued education and certification for myself and my company and I am excited at the depth of this program and the opportunities it will provide to help step up the professionalism in our industry for years to come. Check out more details at coloradoscaping.org and be sure to sign up to receive more information as it comes out in the coming months.

Have a great month!

Anne