Looking for Association for Resedential L/S Maint

[Az Gardener]

A good friend of mine is really adamant about starting an association for residential maintenance providers. I don't think there is enough interest to support such a venture but hey what do I know. So I am wondering if anyone else knows of a association specifically dedicated to residential landscape maintenance.

[Az Gardener]

Lot of lookers but no takers? Well how about comments on your thoughts of the value of such an organization? Well I think the value is undeniable but will it be embraced and used by the industry? That is the question.

[Lefet]

I would be interested in hearing more of your thougths on the subject.

[NEW CITY LAWN CARE LLC]

Are you talking about creating a Union for the Landscape Maint. Industry??

[Az Gardener]

No no no... no unions.

There are many associations for L/S Contractors they are dominated by large companies primarily install companies and some big commercial maint companies. They try and promote the members of the association and professionalism of the industry. They have classes on different topics both field and business related. They have social events and invite sponsors (your vendors) in to promote products, they usually have some type of award competition, and they provide group discounts for members. Here is a link to our local association http://www.azlca.com/

The problem that he perceives is the associations fault is they don't target the smaller residential contractor. I believe the problem is the small residential contractor is not putting forth the effort to better them selves or their company. If they were the information is out there and it is easier than ever to get with the Internet.

ALCA is open to the smaller contractor its just that they don't see the value of a $300 membership fee, they don't attend meetings, they just don't get it.

He believes if we have our own association they will show up.

[Dugann]

I actually have thought about the same not so much on a national, regional level but on a local level first to start. Getting the guys together that do our work on local level and build it from there. Think that it would be a good networking tool and a good way to bond with fellow LCOs.

[Smallaxe]

I tried working with other LCOs, getting them to help with projects that I needed help with. The attitude is petty competitiveness, like they would rather see me dead, so they could get more business.

[Smallaxe]

Besides, who's going to set the standard? There is little agreement about what's "right', in any given situation on this forum.