May 15, 2008
Denis Flanagan CLD
Manager, membership services

Denis FlanaganAs we all know, a successful project relies on a solid plan, a well thought-out work schedule and outstanding teamwork. Certainly all those elements were evident at the Quinte Sports Arena in Belleville at the Quinte Home Builders Show, held March 27-30. The Upper Canada Chapter of LO not only sponsored the show, but created a fabulous landscape feature which was its major highlight. Visitors were wowed by four spectacular gardens built by Dutchman Lawn and Garden, Fresh Landscape and Garden Solutions, Picture Perfect Landscaping Quinte and The Scott Wentworth Landscape Group.

A wide variety of hard and soft materials were incorporated into the display gardens, with some innovative water features catching the public’s attention.

The four gardens were joined together with a central walkway, allowing room for a prominent Landscape Ontario booth. The booth was manned by members from the Upper Canada chapter. Attendees loved receiving free copies of Garden Inspiration magazine, including a listing of local members.

The Chapter also sponsored seminars on the main stage area. The whole experience was extremely positive — a great partnership was formed with the Quinte Home Builders Association, and our messages of professionalism, raising awareness of horticulture and care for the environment were portrayed loud and clear… branding at its best!

As an added bonus, the plant material used in the gardens was donated to a good cause. The following night, it was used at a fundraiser called Springtime in Paris, which raised money for pediatric cancer research.

Well-deserved credit should go to Paul Doornbos, president of the Upper Canada chapter, who spearheaded this initiative and to the Upper Canada executive, the participants and sponsors for making our association shine in eastern Ontario.
 
Denis Flanagan may be contacted at dflanagan@landscapeontario.com.


Caption: Plants from the LO members’ booths were reused from Canada Blooms and auctioned off after the show to raise money for pediatric cancer reseach.