NALP Award Winning Property: North City Water Reclamation Plant

Published on February 6, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Contact: Bill Mohler

Title: Senior Projects Manager

Phone: (213) 465-5338

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company RECEIVES A NATIONAL LANDSCAPE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

Littleton, CO, January 12, 2018 – Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company is proud to announce it has been awarded an Award of Excellence- Merit Award by the National Association of Landscape Professionals for the North City Water Reclamation property.

North City Water Reclamation Plant, California-

North City is the premier water reclamation plant for the city. This landscape restoration project focused on the conversion of what used to be turf (80% reduction) and original overgrown plant material, into a drought tolerant landscape. This project sits on approximately four acres of land which includes the grounds, upper and lower level meeting areas, and parking lots. Through the landscape provider, the landscape designer, and in coordination with the city, the intention was to create an attractive and engaging water-wise landscape for drought conditions that would comply with minimal water usage on this property. There are certain viewpoints and seating for the public to enjoy at their leisure, which capture views of ocean-inspired designs including a variety of beaches, a fire pit, crashed boats, dropped buoys and coral reefs.

Each year, the National Association Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence recognizes exceptional landscape, lawn care, and interior plantscape design projects from around the nation. This year only, 136 awards were bestowed for maintenance, design/build or contracting projects across the United States.

“It’s a team effort to ensure our customer’s properties are well maintained and are promoting water conservation. We are thrilled to receive national recognition for a job well done allowing us to celebrate our successful partnership with our customers and employees” said Dean Murphy, President of Terracare Associates.

About Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company, is a recognized leader in outdoor maintenance in the Western United States. For more than 30 years, our certified and experienced staff works during all seasons to improve landscapes, parks, roadways and infrastructure for beautiful, safe and sustainable outdoor environments. We are headquartered in Littleton, Colorado, and are proud to serve Colorado, Northern and Southern California and Texas.

For more information regarding the Awards of Excellence, click here, and to view pictures of North City Water Reclamation and learn more about Terracare Associates’ achievements, visit the 2017 Awards of Excellence Gallery/North City Water Reclamation application.

About NALP

The National Association of Landscape Professionals represents an industry that employs nearly 1 million landscape, lawn care, irrigation and tree care professionals who create and maintain healthy green spaces for the benefit of society and the environment. For more information about caring for your lawn or landscape, visit LoveYourLandscape.org.

NALP Award Winning Property: Los Colinas Corporate I & II

Published on January 23, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Contact: Brian Schendzielos

Title: Branch Manager

(214) 488-5642

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company RECEIVES A NATIONAL LANDSCAPE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

Littleton, CO, January 8, 2018 – Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company is proud to announce it has been awarded an Award of Excellence- Recognition Award by the National Association of Landscape Professionals for the Los Colinas Corporate I & II property.

Los Colinas Corporate I & II, Texas-

Los Colinas Corporate I & II is set on more than seven acres that supports close to 450 employees. When the current landscape maintenance contractor began servicing the property, the Las Colinas’ new property manager was disappointed with the upkeep and curb appeal of the previous property manager’s style and the lack of ongoing maintenance. The building management company was concerned that occupancy rates might fall due to the marginal upkeep. The building needed to attract and retain more tenants. The new management reached out to the landscape maintenance company with high expectations for maintenance and enhancement work, but they had a limited budget. The landscape contractor worked closely with the property manager to design a phased plan to meet the budget constraints and exceed the property management company’s expectations. In addition, the front entrance courtyard was of particular interest to the management team to add a focal point to the entrance of the corporate complex.

About Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company

For more information regarding the Awards of Excellence, click here, and to view pictures of Los Colinas Corporate I & II and learn more about Terracare Associates’ achievements, visit the 2017 Awards of Excellence Gallery/Los Colinas Corporate I & II application.

About NALP

NALP Award Winning Property: Sewell Automotive Group

Published on January 17, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Contact: Andrew Lenz

Title: Branch Manager

(817) 752-4839

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company RECEIVES A NATIONAL LANDSCAPE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

Littleton, CO, January 11, 2018 – Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company is proud to announce it has been awarded an Award of Excellence- Merit Award by the National Association of Landscape Professionals for the Sewell Automotive Group property.

Sewell Automotive Group, Texas-

Sewell Automotive Group’s intent for this project was to keep the property pristine under all circumstances. Excellent customer service is a top priority because the company only wants to work with vendors that provide superior customer service. The client is known for being a benchmark of customer service with clean, modern and bright departments that reflect a memorable showroom environment. The landscape service provider had to be invisible to clients and staff when performing lawn maintenance. The landscape needed to remain understated while keeping the grounds free of litter and weeds, the grass mowed to the proper height, the shrubs pruned at proper height, and vibrant blooming flowers maintained. The client also relied on the landscape service provider to make recommendations for improving the property while also maintaining a strong relationship.

About Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company

For more information regarding the Awards of Excellence, click here, and to view pictures of Sewell Automotive Group and learn more about Terracare Associates’ achievements, visit the 2017 Awards of Excellence Gallery/Sewell Automotive Group application.

About NALP

NALP Award Winning Property: Centennial Center Park

Published on January 17, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Contact: Bill Winfield

Title: Branch Manager

(720) 587-2572

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company RECEIVES A NATIONAL LANDSCAPE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

Littleton, CO, January 9, 2018 – Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company is proud to announce, that it has been selected for an Award of Excellence- Merit Award by the National Association of Landscape Professionals in the commercial landscape management for multi-use properties category for services TCA provides the City of Centennial at Centennial Center Park.

Centennial Center Park, Colorado-

Recognized regionally and nationally as an award-winning park, the 11- acre park includes a 5,000-person amphitheater, a Nautilus water play area, a large shelter and plaza. This park has surpassed its goal of providing a strong sense of community. TCA has worked with the City to achieve this goal by reducing the landscaping water demands in the Park through the installation of drought-tolerant grasses and plants, including a xeric garden with plants native to Colorado.

Each year, the National Association Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence recognizes exceptional landscape, lawn care, and interior plant scape design projects from around the nation. This year only, 136 awards were bestowed for maintenance, design/build or contracting projects across the United States. Terracare is proud to have this on-going project be included in their annual selection.

About Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company, is a recognized leader in outdoor maintenance in the Western United States. For more than 30 years, our certified and experienced staff works during all seasons to improve landscapes, parks, roadways and infrastructure for beautiful, safe and sustainable outdoor environments. With our headquarters in Littleton, Colorado, we are proud to serve Colorado, Northern and Southern California and Texas. TCA has partnered with CH2M for over 10 years to provide landscape maintenance services under a Facilities, Parks and Fleet Maintenance Service contract with the City of Centennial.

For more information regarding the Awards of Excellence, click here, and to view pictures of Centennial Center Park and learn more about Terracare Associates’ achievements, visit the 2017 Awards of Excellence Gallery/Centennial Center Park Application.

About NALP

NALP Award Winning Property: Travis Credit Union

Published on January 17, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Contact: Kris Dasso

Title: Branch Manager

(925) 374-0060

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company RECEIVES A NATIONAL LANDSCAPE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

Littleton, CO, January 2, 2018 – Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company is proud to announce it has been awarded an Award of Excellence- Merit Award by the National Association of Landscape Professionals for the Travis Credit Union property.

Travis Credit Union, California-

Travis Credit Union is a five-acre campus which includes common areas for customers and employees, an upstairs deck with planters, a natural meadow maintained as an open space and many shade trees. A focal point of this project was water conservation. The client’s intent was to work closely with the district to reduce water while also provide enjoyable areas for employees to go on their breaks. There is a strong relationship between the water district and the landscape provider due to a commitment to being conscious of water savings. It was determined that the maintenance contractor would maintain a well-manicured, professional appearance for customers by creating inviting and conveniently located landscapes.

About Terracare Associates- TCA, a Monarch Landscape Company

For more information regarding the Awards of Excellence, click here, and to view pictures of Travis Credit Union and learn more about Terracare Associates’ achievements, visit the 2017 Awards of Excellence Gallery/Travis Credit Union application.

About NALP

Four Commercial Landscaping Trends for 2018

Published on January 18, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Every year we look forward to upcoming trends in the commercial landscaping world! This year, we wanted to show off some of the trends that you will be seeing in 2018. Below are four of our recommended trends you may want to try on your commercial landscape property.

Green Roofs

As more commercial properties search to find ways to reduce their carbon foot-print, the trend of green roofs has emerged. Green roofs allow projects in high-density areas to be built with a landscape, by partially or completely covering their rooftops in vegetation and plant life. By taking this green initiative, a property can expect to significantly reduce heat loss, filter out storm water, lower energy consumption, and have improved insulation. In addition to being eco-friendly, other benefits include, allowing residents or employees a chance to relax and escape the day-to-day grind, attract an assortment of wildlife and even serve as farm to table gardens for restaurants.

Xeriscape

Xeriscaping is another trend that will continue to take off as we go into the new year. The increased frequencies of droughts and scarcity of water has put a spotlight on the importance of xeriscape. Xeriscape landscaping can be the most efficient method for commercial properties to achieve water use reduction and reduce costs. In fact, xeriscape can reduce outdoor water use by as much as 70 percent. Because of this, your commercial landscape property will reduce your water costs. You will also have a well-maintained, beautiful and appealing landscape. For more information on xeriscaping, click here.

Brush Management

For most of the country, this fall has been very dry and the winter months will offer more of the same. This lack of precipitation is a major issue, especially when it comes to wildfires. In fact, according to WX Shift, “since 1970 the annual average number of wildfires larger than 1,000 acres has more than doubled in the western U.S. The typical wildfire season has also stretched by about two and a half months longer over that time”. Because of this, maintaining the brush on commercial properties is vital to the prevention of wildfires. On top of this, more and more cities, municipalities and counties have and will continue to establish guidelines and rules for managing brush and reducing fire risk. Click here for tips on how to manage your brush.

Native Plants

There has been a great interest in finding methods to aid in sustainability and at the same time reduce the property owner’s costs. Due to these needs, the trend of planting native foliage has emerged in the commercial landscape world. One of the main factors leading to native plants becoming such popular alternatives is their ability to thrive without much human intervention. The word “native” means that the plant is indigenous to a certain area. Since native plants are already adapted to the local environment, less water is required as well as a reduction of fertilizers and other lawn care treatments. For a few suggestions of native plants in your area, contact Terracare Associates today. If you are interested in native plants, click here.

5 Plants to Brighten Up Your Property This Winter

Published on January 18, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

For many of us there is no avoiding the upcoming snow and ice this season. Because of this, choosing lively plants that can thrive through the winter months is a great way to bring some life to your commercial landscape property. Below are five of our recommendations:

Red Twig Dogwood

The fire red colors of this fun shrub provides a unique pop to any commercial landscape property, especially through the winter. During these months, the Red Twig Dogwood drops it’s leaves which in turn exposes the shrubs incredible, bright red bark. Red Twig Dogwood are exceptionally adaptable and are known to thrive both in the cold and hot extremes.

Colorado Blue Spruce

A popular evergreen tree, the Colorado Blue Spruce, gives off a silvery- blue hue and is a perfect way to add a lush feel during these cold, snowy months. Colorado Blue Spruce trees can grow to about 30 to 50 feet high, however they only are 10 to 20 feet wide. In addition to that, birds love these kinds of trees! That being said more color will be added as the birds fly in and out of your commercial landscape property.

Golden Pacific Juniper

This low growing evergreen juniper grows to 10 to 15 inches tall and is great for any ground cover or for cascading over a wall. Golden Pacific Juniper stands out in the winter months by giving a yellowish, golden look that really comes through. On top of that it is a very low maintenance, durable plant, being both resistant to deer and insects.

Winter Camellia

Adding a Winter Camellia might be just what your property needs for that extra spark during the dull winter months. Known for being a winter bloomer, this beautiful shrub surely is a treat for any commercial landscape property. The Winter Camellia produces flowers that range in color from pure white to soft pink to a dark red.

Feather Reed Grass

This persistent grouping of ornamental grass, holds its grain heads well into the winter. Feather Reed Grass grows to be 3 to 5 feet tall and the grain heads at the top will add a golden hue to your property. An added perk is that Feather Reed Grass is an extremely versatile plant. Due to that, it can be found in many locations in the U.S.

Thank you for your business!

Published on January 18, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to reflect and appreciate those that are important to us. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to you, our clients. It is a pleasure to maintain your property and keep it in pristine condition. We are very thankful for you and your continued business with us. We look forward to many more years working alongside you and continuing to build our relationship with you.

Have a great break and enjoy the holiday!

Tips for Driving Safely with Snowplows

Published on January 18, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

Winter is just around the corner. Municipalities, cities, DOTs, and others are gearing up for the winter by preparing their snowplow crews and equipment. We can all learn valuable lessons from these agencies by preparing our vehicles and ourselves for the upcoming season.

Snowplows serve to make the community and roads passable during the worst winter weather. Snowplows are fitted with heavy, wide plows on the front of the truck to clear as much snow and ice from the road as possible – this means sometimes they may cross the center line, shoulder of the road or make other moves in their effort to provide a driving surface the general public can navigate. If you encounter a plow, slow down and give them the space they need to perform their task. Your best chance to arrive at your destination safely is to stay behind the plow as the worst of the conditions are in front of the plow. It’s important that everyone, from individual drivers to plow operators, stay safe on the road to get home safely so here are some tips.

Prepare your vehicle

It is good practice to maintain your vehicle year round, however it is especially important to winterize your vehicle to avoid the dangers of frigid winter weather.

Check the following before snow begins to fall:

Wiper blades and windshield washer fluid
Battery
Ignition system
Antifreeze

Brakes
Electrical system
Tires
Heater and defrost system

Additionally, it’s recommended to carry blankets, booster cable, a flashlight and extra batteries, snow scraper and shovel.

When driving:

Give snowplows room to do their job. It’s best practice to not tailgate or try to pass a snowplow while it’s in working.
As a general rule, stay at least 200 feet behind a snowplow.
Plows pushing snow can create a cloud which can blind drivers who are following too closely.
These are large, heavy vehicles and the drivers are intent on their task at hand, don’t be another distraction to the plow driver. They cannot stop in a short distance.
There may be spreaders on trucks to distribute salt or sand on the road, these can cause damage to cars if driving too close, stay back to protect your car and you.
Always turn on your headlights, and have plenty of fuel and wiper fluid (carrying an extra gallon is a good idea) and have appropriate tires for winter driving conditions.
Don’t over estimate your braking capabilities, many 4 X 4 vehicles are heavier than normal, thus the braking distance is greater. Your traction is determined by weight and tire tread. Sand or cat litter in your trunk will add weight and can be used if you do need help with traction.
Leave extra space between you and the vehicles in front and behind you.
Bridge decks freeze first so take extra caution when driving on these.
Remember to always buckle up!
Ignore the phone and email until you get to your destination. There are other people on the road that deserve your attention.
Most importantly, SLOW DOWN!

It is not too late to get help with your snow removal needs. Send us a note or give us a call, we’ll get back to you with a proposal and estimate for how we can help you.

What the Farmer’s Almanac predicts for this Winter

Published on January 18, 2018 by Jackson Holliday

It’s almost time to say goodbye to fall, are you ready? By doing the research for your region’s weather predictions now, you will be able to adjust and prepare for any potential surprises that could be heading towards your commercial landscape property. For these forecasts we chose to use The Farmer’s Almanac. The Farmer’s Almanac has been around for about 200 years. It also claims that the forecasts it provides are 80 to 85 percent accurate.

Colorado:

Colorado’s winter weather predictions state that it will be a cold winter with moderate amounts of snowfall. However, the winter will not be as harsh as usual. On top of that, The Farmer’s Almanac states that “our forecasts are pointing to a return to more normal winter conditions in regard to both temperatures and precipitation.” That’s not to say there won’t be the sporadic heavy winter storm coming in from the Pacific or pushing south from western Canada. These storms should be “balanced out by spells of dry and mild weather,” the forecast says.

Northern California:

The Farmer’s Almanac predicts that Northern California will be cooler than normal with rainfall above normal. The coldest periods for Northern California will take place in late November into early December and as well as early February.

Southern California:

For Southern California, The Farmer’s Almanac states that it will be a very average winter for the area. The Farmer’s Almanac states that it will be mild and that you shouldn’t expect anything out of the ordinary for the area. Additionally, Southern California should anticipate average precipitation throughout the winter months.

Texas:

According to The Farmer’s Almanac, Texas will have a winter that is colder than normal. The region should also expect above- normal precipitation. The coldest parts of the winter season will be from late November into early December, from late December into early January, and in early February. Snowfall in Texas’ region will be near to above normal. Most snow will come in late December and early to mid-February.

It is not too late to get help with your snow removal needs. Send us a note or give us a call, we’ll get back to you with a proposal and estimate for how we can help you.