• by Andrew Pelkey
    March 2026 —

    March is when the energy in our industry really starts to build. The snowbanks are shrinking, the phones are starting to ring, and landscape companies across New Hampshire are preparing for another busy season. This time of year, always reminds me how important it is that we invest not just in equipment and schedules, but in our people and our industry’s future.

    One of the most exciting developments this month is the launch of our first course in partnership with NHTI – Concord’s Community College. The program began on March 11 with Intro to Safety and Basic Equipment Use-Landscaping, giving new and emerging professionals a strong foundation in safety and equipment operation. This is exactly the kind of program our industry needs, practical hands-on training that prepares the next generation to step onto a jobsite with confidence. A tremendous amount of work has gone into bringing this course to life, and it is a big step forward for workforce development in New Hampshire’s landscape industry.

    We are also looking ahead to one of the most valuable training opportunities of the year, NHLA Safety Day 2026 coming up at the end of the month. Safety Day is always a highlight because it brings crews, managers, and owners together to reinforce the practices that keep our teams safe and productive. As someone who works closely with field teams every day, I know that a strong safety culture does not happen by accident. It is built through training, communication, and leadership. This event helps set that tone for the entire season.

    Behind the scenes, the NHLA Education Committee has been working incredibly hard to make all of this happen. From developing the NHTI course to organizing Safety Day and planning our popular After Hours networking events for the upcoming season, this group continues to move the industry forward. I am excited to share that the schedule for the After Hours events will be released soon. They are always a great way to connect with peers, share ideas, and strengthen the community that makes this association so special.

    As we head into the season, I am proud of the momentum we are building together. When our members invest in education, safety, and relationships, the entire industry benefits. Here is to a strong start to the season and to continuing to raise the bar for landscaping in New Hampshire.

    Andrew Pelkey
    President, New Hampshire Landscape Association
    President@NHLAonline.org
    www.nhlaonline.org