v  Representation and Advocacy – of landscape and maintenance contractors’ interest before federal, state, county and municipal governments on all major issues.

v Excellence In Landscaping Awards Program – Contractors are honored for their beautiful award winning landscape projects.  Award recipients have received featured coverage in Phoenix Home and Garden, Tucson Lifestyle, the ALCA Influence Magazine and various publications.

v ALCA Influence Magazine – This publication keeps members up-to-date on the latest industry news, legislation, benefits, educational opportunities, member meetings & fun events.  It is distributed to all AZ licensed landscape contractors….nearly 2,600 businesses.

v Annual Mini Trade Show – ALCA vendors display their products and services while contractors meet and learn how to improve their businesses and keep up on innovative industry ideas so that they are not outpaced by their competitors.

v Directory and Resource Guide – published annually giving members an up-to-date listing of members and a quick reference for identification and work and services they perform.

v Arizona Certified Landscape Professional – This educational program is for those aspiring to be professional landscapers.  Each year ALCA schedules a series of full day workshops covering 11 topics designed for interaction and hands-on learning. 

v Professional Training Opportunities – Various training opportunities are available for owners and managers to help run their businesses effectively and efficiently including discussions on:  Pre-Liens,  Insurance, Budgeting, Non Compete Contracts, Wage & Labor Laws, Immigration, Exit Strategies, Collection Programs, etc.

v Resource Library – Educational and resource materials are maintained at the ALCA office and available for members’ use.

v Workers’ Compensation Fund Benefit –  ALCA can help lower your company’s cost of worker’s compensation insurance.  Qualifying members can participate in the ALCA Dividend Pool and earn a “bonus” dividend in addition to their individual dividends based on the safety success of all members participating in the ALCA Dividend Pool.  This additional “bonus” dividend can increase the members’ earned dividend 20-50%!

v Scholarship Program — ALCA has 3 scholarship programs available to those who wish to establish or build their careers in the green industry or for ALCA members and their immediate families.  They are Jimmy Tipton, Sky Blu Underwood and the ALCA General Scholarship Funds.

v Field Day – includes a day of fun in the sun for landscape contractors, members of the green industry, employees and their families.

v Monthly Member Mixers — held in both Phoenix and Tucson with topics about the landscaping industry and an excellent opportunity to meet owners, management and other industry professionals.

PARTNERSHIP BENEFITS

The Arizona Landscape Contractors’ Association is happy to provide partnership benefits and networking opportunities with various companies that support our members.  When contacting the companies listed below always inform them you are an ALCA member.  If you have any questions regarding these companies, please call the ALCA office.

ARIZONA CERTIFIED LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONAL – discount technical training for employees.  Flyers are e-mailed monthly on upcoming classes and examinations.  If you have not received a flyer call the ALCA OFFICE AT 602-626-7091.

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION – the STATE COMPENSATION FUND, with ALCA, provides a dual dividend for qualified members.  Your firm qualifies for a dividend and the ALCA dividend is added to it.  Call Wendell MacNab at (602) 631-2033.  www.scfaz.com  Be sure to tell them you’re an ALCA member.

AZ DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE - Click here to go to the Arizona Department of Commerce Small Business Services Division. This site includes an online "Step-by-Step Checklist to Start, Operate and Grow a Business in Arizona

WHY HIRE AN ALCA MEMBER?

Contract with Landscape Experts - When you contract with an ALCA member you are contracting with a landscape expert.  ALCA provides specialized training for its members so they utilize proper installation methods and best maintenance practices for their customers.  A beautifully landscaped project is a visible investment that leads to a substantial return.

Before You Hire - Before hiring a landscape contractor, check for membership in ALCA, the only professional organization for landscape contractors in Arizona.  Membership demonstrates a willingness to stay up to date on the latest techniques, newest trends and designs, and ever changing industry rules and regulations.

Check to see if your contractor holds an AZ Certified Landscape Professional (ACLP) designation.  ACLP contractors are experienced professionals who have passed an extensive examination covering all aspects of landscaping.

Ask for proof of insurance.  A reputable landscape contractor will carry liability and worker’s compensation insurance coverage.  Many homeowners have paid large amounts of money for damages caused by uninsured individuals claiming to be landscape experts.  The property owner could be held responsible for damages and injuries that occur as a result.

Check for necessary licenses.  The Registrar of Contractors may require a license before any work can be performed. 

Protect Your Investment - Ask for references.  Your landscaping is a long-lasting investment; do not hesitate to request a list of similar jobs the contractor has recently completed.  Look at the work and if possible, talk to the owners.

Be wary of individuals who go door to door and offer bargains for performing work.  Improper landscape care will cost you extra time and money to correct or replace.  Are you willing to take that risk with your investment? 

To check if your landscape contractor is a member of ALCA, contact the office at 602-626-7091 or email at judy@AZLCA.com