LPU: Course descriptions and approved credits

1. Sustainable Planting Design: Start to Profitable Finish

8:00 am - 3:25 pm

This full-day workshop focuses on the effective use of all types of plant material, especially natives. This full-day class takes an artistic approach to sustainable design centering on how to combine form, texture and color. Students learn how to use block design to create stunning combinations that are earth-friendly and eco-smart. The course also teaches how to draw in a realistic elevation view to help sell your ideas. Finally, the course provides various strategies to price your work including design, installation and management.

Instructor: Dr. Richard Ludwig

2. Georgia Pesticide License Review for Exam

8:00 am - 3:25 pm

This full-day training is intended for turfgrass and ornamental landscape employees interested in attaining the Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Category 24 License in Georgia. This license is required for anyone who does contract spraying of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides in Georgia for residential, industrial, or business applications. This training also is open to licensed applicators who would like a refresher course.

Optional: Participants are encouraged to purchase both study guide manuals (National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core and Category 24 Ornamental and Turf Pest Control) and follow along during the training. Order these manuals at www.gapestexam.com/examInfo.cfm. Please allow 7-14 days for delivery. Upon completion of the review, participants may register to take the exam through a local technical college testing center in Georgia: www.gapestexam.com.

Instructor:  Tim Daly, UGA Henry County

The following credits have been approved for the Georgia Pesticide Review:

  • AL: 10, OTPC, OTPS
  • GA:  5 hours Cat 24
  • GCLP: 5 hours
  • NC: 5 L, N, D, and X 
  • SC Recertification Credits: 5

3. Green Industry Conference - mix or match topic areas hourly from the following or focus on one topic area all day!

Please see the individual session descriptions for approved credits and CEUs.

8:00 am - 8:55 am

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 1

Angry Dogs and Irate Customers!

No matter what your job is in the landscape management world, you've dealt with all kinds of issues: angry dogs, irate customers and a whole lot more! Dr. Clint Waltz will use case studies from his clients - and even situations he and his colleagues have encountered - to help you deal with a wide range of circumstances out there in the real world. The importance of IPM, prevention, ID, control of disease and weeds in the landscape, along with herbicide use, will be discussed.

Instructor: Dr. Clint Waltz, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • ISA: Management .5; Certified Arborist .5 
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 2

Manage Wildlife Without Losing Your Sanity!

From armadillos to deer, geese and rabbits, nuisance wildlife is a problem! Join Ben Winkleman, Director,  Rome-Floyd E.C.O. Center, and Keith Mickler, UGA CAES as they give sound advice as to how to control a variety of creatures that invade landscapes, golf courses, athletic fields and more. There will be discussion about the use of chemicals (herbicides, fertilizer, etc. in areas where wildlife is found.

Instructors: Keith Mickler, UGA CAES and Ben W. Winkelman, Director,  Rome-Floyd E.C.O. Center

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

HARDSCAPES

Hardscape Estimating and Bidding

An overview of estimating a Belgard Concrete paver and retaining wall project utilizing real world experience and industry standards that new and experienced Hardscapes contractors can apply to their bidding and estimating procedure to better cover cost and ensure profits on these hardscapes projects.

Instructor: Andrew Harris, Belgard

IRRIGATION

2-Wire Decoder Systems: Theory of Operation

The differences between conventional systems and decoders system will be discussed, with an in-depth view of when and why a decoder system is beneficial to install.

Instructor: Tim Johnson, SiteOne Landscape Supply

CREDITS:

  • NCICLB: 1 Irrigation

TAUGHT IN SPANISH

IPM and Recognizing Plant Disorders

This class will be taught in Spanish. Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to identify and control plant issues in the landscape will be discussed.

Instructor: Rolando Orellana, UGA and UGA CAES Team

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1

BUSINESS

Where Do I Find My Next Great Employee?

Every company no matter what business they are in has trouble finding employees. Learn where to look and how to find the best available employees. To do so you must think differently and act differently. Remember insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

Instructor: Rex Bishop, Tea Olive Productions

CREDITS:

  • NCLCLB: 1B
  • NCICLB: 1B

8:55 am - 10:15 am

Break | Time to explore the trade show

10:15 am - 11:10 am

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 1

Cold Damage on Shrubs: Lessons Learned

Many shrubs suffered damage in the 2022-2023 cool season. Symptoms varied by species and location. Which ones came through and which ones took the worst hit -  where and why? And most importantly, what can we do to prevent the worst in the future. There will be discussion about fertilizer use on damaged plants, along with IPM, prevention, ID, control of disease and weeds in the landscape, along with herbicide use.

Instructor: Dr. Bodie V. Pennisi, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 2

What’s Bugging You?  Lookout for These Insect Pests!

Stay ahead of issues in your landscape by using integrated pest management (IPM) to identify and control potential insect problems. Prevention, ID, control, etc. will be discussed in regards to chemical applications.

Instructor: Dr. Shimat Joseph, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X 
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

HARDSCAPES

Belgard: What's New and What’s Changed

Artforms™ is a revolutionary system that utilizes a large-format modular panel system to create infinite design possibilities with ease.  From benches to planters to fire pits to outdoor kitchens to seating areas.  They are all possible with this new innovative line.  Let us walk you through how to put Artforms to work in your business.

Instructor: Andrew Harris, Belgard

IRRIGATION

2-Wire Decoder Systems: System Components and Installation Best Practices

What all is needed to successfully install a 2-wire system and the best way to do it. Covering all types of 2 -wire systems. Setting up decoders systems to last.

Instructor: Tim Johnson, SiteOne Landscape Supply

CREDITS:

  • NCICLB: 1 Irrigation

TAUGHT IN SPANISH

Equipment Safety

This class will be taught in Spanish.  Attendees will learn basic equipment safety to protect themselves from injury.

Instructor: Rolando Orellana, UGA and UGA CAES Team

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1B

BUSINESS

Pricing and Cost Analysis

To be profitable you must understand your costs first and how to price next. Most landscapers have problems with understanding their true costs and they use the unrealistic WAG method to price. Lets take a look and analyze your costs and make sure you have covered everything to make the price right and you profitable.

Instructor: Rex Bishop, Tea Olive Productions

CREDITS:

  • NCLCLB: 1B
  • NCICLB: 1B
  • ISA: Management 1; Certified Arborist 1

11:15 am - 12:10 pm

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 1

Preparing For 2024 Turfgrass Disease ID and Management: Latest Research

Dr. Alfredo Martinez will share the latest investigations on turfgrass pathology, main foliar, crown and root turfgrass diseases will be discussed in detail. Environmental and cultural factors that promote each disease will be examined. Turfgrass pathogen biology as well as the different methods of disease control will be highlighted. Additionally, a comprehensive discussion on the newest turfgrass fungicides will be emphasized.

Instructor: Dr. Alfredo Martinez, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 2

What Should You Be Looking for in 2024?  An Overview of Landscape Diseases

Every year brings new disease issues in the landscape. Dr. Williams-Woodward will give you a heads up of what the experts are seeing, how to 1st off prevent issues, and if the occur, how to identify, control and eradicate disease in the landscape!

Instructor: Jean Williams-Woodward,, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1
  • ISA: BCMA Science .5; Certified Arborist .5

HARDSCAPES

Cleaning and Sealing: A Great Opportunity to Expand Your Hardscape Business

Sealing 101 is an informative course designed to teach contractors the basics of sealing concrete and natural stone pavers. The presentation will begin with an overview of the various types of types of sealers on the market and then move into deeper discussion on preparation and installation techniques. The final topic will be common issues with sealer and how to address them. Questions and answers will be mixed in throughout to keep the audience engaged.

Instructor: Topher Grennan, Alliance

IRRIGATION

2-Wire Decoder Systems: Diagnostics

How to troubleshoot and repair all types of 2-wire systems.

Instructor: Tim Johnson, SiteOne Landscape Supply

CREDITS:

  • NCICLB: 1 Irrigation

TAUGHT IN SPANISH

Turfgrass Management

This class will be taught in Spanish.  All areas of turfgrass management and maintenance will be covered. The importance of IPM, prevention, ID, control of disease and weeds in the landscape, along with herbicide use, will be discussed.

Instructor: Rolando Orellana, UGA and UGA CAES Team

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

BUSINESS

Benchmarking: Numbers You Should Track and Know

There is a benchmark for almost everything. Learn the critical benchmarks used in the landscape industry and see how you stack up against the others. If you aren't measuring it you can't know if it is working. Measurements are the key to success. If you are not benchmarking, you are probably losing money.

Instructor: Rex Bishop, Tea Olive Productions

CREDITS:

  • NCLCLB: 1B
  • NCICLB: 1B
  • ISA: Management 1; Certified Arborist 1

12:10 pm - 1:30 pm

Lunch | Time to explore the trade show

1:30 pm - 2:25 pm

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 1

Strategies for Controlling Problem Weeds in Turf

Dr. Clint Waltz will guide you through prevention, identification and control of weeds in turfgrass.  Once identified, he will provide information to select the most effective methods (whether cultural or with pesticides) to control and eradicate turfgrass weeds in the landscapes.

Instructor: Dr. Clint Waltz, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NC: 1 L, N, D, and X
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 2

Back to Basics: Building An Annual/Seasonal Color Garden With Real, Available Flowers That WORK

Shiny magazines. Pinterest boards. Annual trial gardens. Seed catalogs. A stroll through the garden center. Do any of these things make your heart race with anticipation about the season to come? I confess… I love every opportunity to immerse myself in beauty and dream of the next garden. Then reality hits. That amazingly unique plant from the Pinterest board only exists in Fantasyland. The coolest caladium ever won’t be commercially for 3-5 more years, if it makes it out of the trial phase. The seed catalog photos were enhanced. The combination from the magazine only works somewhere in Canada. Sometimes, we get so hyper-focused on that one special flower that a lack of availability completely derails our vision. This doesn’t have to happen. We can design winning flower gardens no matter what. It’s all about going Back to Basics.  Artistry is just important as the plants we choose. In this class, Jenny Hardgrave, Simply Flowers, Inc, will teach you how to design a strong framework for your annual gardens that will fit with your favorite suppliers’ selections and dazzle your clients. And, the plants will thrive in your region.  In the end, a garden isn’t special because of a fascinating new variety of flower. It’s special because the structure is solid, the colors are right, and the textures are palpable. Come and hear how to make your floral dreams come true! Of course, the importance of IPM, prevention, ID, control of disease and weeds in these seasonal flower beds will be discussed.

Instructor: Jenny Hardgrave, Simply Flowers, Inc.

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1L

HARDSCAPES

Properly Designing and Engineering Segmental Retaining Walls

What to look for and consider when building a segmented retaining wall.

Instructor: David Agee, SiteOne Landscape Supply

IRRIGATION

Introduction to Irrigation

We will cover the foundations of an irrigation system from start to finish including all the major components, operation, and installation.

Instructor: Shawn Sandink, SiteOne Landscape Supply

CREDITS:

  • NCICLB: 1 Irrigation

TAUGHT IN SPANISH

Pruning: Basics and Appropriate Tools

This class will be taught in Spanish. Attendees will learn basic pruning techniques, including appropriate tools to use for specific situations. ID and control of insects, disease and proper chemical application will be discussed.

Instructor: Rolando Orellana, UGA and UGA CAES Team

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1
  • ISA: Practice 1; Climber Specialist 1; Certified Arborist 1; Aerial Lift Specialist 1

BUSINESS

Grow Your Company to the Next Level

Growing anything can be hard. We have all killed a few plants in our lifetime, we didn't give them what they needed to grow well. Are you giving your company what it needs to grow well and prosper. Learn how to take you and your company to the next level.

Instructor: Rex Bishop, Tea Olive Productions

CREDITS:

  • NCLCLB: 1B
  • NCICLB: 1B

2:30 pm - 3:25 pm

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 1

Newly Constructed Landscapes: Plant Health and Establishment Issues

New job, new client, new landscape.  Greg Huber, UGA will discuss typical issues with managing and maintaining a newly installed/constructed landscape, and how to tackle them while meeting client expectations. The importance of IPM, prevention, ID, control of disease and weeds in the landscape, along with herbicide use, will be discussed.

Instructor: Greg Huber, UGA

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT 2

Advanced Pruning for Landscape Pros

You know the basics. Here's expert guidance on advanced pruning techniques for landscape professionals.  Rick Smith will also guide you on the proper use of chemical treatments (if necessary) for tree pests and disease.

Instructor: Rick Smith, The Pruning Guru

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • ISA: Practice 1; Climber Specialist 1; Certified Arborist 1; Aerial Lift Specialist 1
  • MS: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1L
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

HARDSCAPES

Ride the Green Wave! Getting Started in Artificial Turf

The objective of this class will be to provide the basic information on artificial turf construction, bidding, and installation. Great for contractors looking to expand their business offerings and those that are currently installing.

  • How is turf made
  • Where can it be used
  • Design and bidding
  • Install overview
  • Care and Maintenance

Instructor: Brian Emert, Synthetic Turf Resources

IRRIGATION

Introduction to Landscape Lighting

Come join us for a beginner/intermediate class for landscape lighting and design. In the first half of this session we will discuss the components of a lighting system, best practices, and basic installation. During the second half, we will dive deeper into more advanced techniques of lighting and lighting design and the application of these in your jobs. If you are new to landscape lighting or want to learn more this will be a great class for you to add some skills to your toolbelt and some margins to your business!

Instructor: Jason Radake, Hunter Industries

TAUGHT IN SPANISH

Pesticide Safety

This class will be taught in Spanish.  It's important to know proper techniques for pesticide use.  This will be emphasis of this class.

Instructor: Rolando Orellana, UGA and UGA CAES Team

CREDITS:

  • GA: 1 Cat 24
  • GCLP: 1
  • MS: 1
  • NCLCLB: 1B
  • SC Recertification Credits: 1; Cat 3:1
  • TN: C03 - 1; C10 - 1; C12 - 1

BUSINESS

Leadership For Landscape Companies: Make a Difference

There is a big difference between a good manager and a good leader. Leaders take their organization forward. Managers typically take care of stuff. Learn how you can be a good manager and a great leader and make a difference in your life and the life of others. Leaders empowers others, defines reality and serves others. Leaders inspire. Learn how to be a leader.

Instructor: Rex Bishop, Tea Olive Productions

CREDITS:

  • NCLCLB: 1 B
  • NCICLB: 1B