www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation October 2015 11
business when they learn to design and install sustainable and/
or resilient landscapes, but the challenge will be in selling the
benefits of such landscapes.
L&I: What areas of advancement in the industry are you
most pleased with; and what areas need to improve?
Hickman: The industry continues to grow at a slow-but-steady
pace; and our recent Harris Poll shows that Americans value their
yards as an important place to relax, and as an important part
of the overall value of their homes. Americans are continuing to
invest in design/build projects, and the outdoor living market
continues to be strong. With a new generation about to enter
the housing market, and with the water constraints in some
markets, we need to continue to promote managed landscapes,
and ensure that future generations place as great a value on them
as baby boomers do. We also need to demonstrate how they
benefit the environment instead of being seen as something that
draws resources like water away.
Mecham: We are continuing to see new products that use
innovative technology to improve efficiency. The downside
to this is that users cannot reap the intended rewards of such
technologies without proper installation or management. The
market is changing rapidly, and keeping up can be challenging.
L&I: What is your overall outlook for the industry as we head
into 2016?
Hickman I think business will stay strong in 2016 as the
economy continues its recovery, but government regulations
will remain a burden our members. We will work to reduce
regulatory burdens, and hopefully elections will bring us new
legislators who will support businesses instead of hamper them.
We will invest more resources in our public relations efforts to
shape public opinion in support of managed landscapes, and
to raise the visibility of careers in the landscape industry.
Mecham: In general, we can expect some steady growth
that will parallel what's going on with the economy. New
technologies will continue developing at a rapid pace. As far
as the association goes, IA's top priorities in 2016 will remain
advocacy and professional development. Under the advocacy
umbrella, the association will continue its efforts to influence
standards, codes and government programs that affect and
influence irrigation. IA is also making a more concentrated
effort to educate the public about the critical role irrigation
plays in maintaining healthy landscapes. Lastly, IA is working
to increase industry proficiency and professionalism
through cutting-edge educational, training and certification
programs.
LI
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
