Professional Landscape Associations

Association of Professional Landscape Designers

• The Association of Professional Landscape Designers in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was established in 1989 to promote and recognize the handiwork of professional landscapers. The organization puts consumers in contact with professionals in the field who can meet their design needs. The association consists of 18 chapters scattered throughout the U.S. Some chapters are statewide organizations, while others are regionally based and consist of members in multiple states. The organization offers the nation's only landscape certification program. Certification requires four years of experience in the industry and the submission of a portfolio that is reviewed by a certification board.

American Nursery & Landscape Association

• The American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA), based in Washington, D.C., is another national organization for professional landscapers. The organization has been operating for over 130 years and provides professional landscapers with research, education and representation within the industry. Many of the ANLA members operate small businesses and benefit from the national representation they receive from the organization. The ANLA represents the interests of its members before Congress through lobbyist efforts when necessary. One of the overall goals of the organization is to promote public awareness of its members and the industry. The association also promotes environmentally friendly research and networking opportunities for members.

PLANT

• The Professional Landscaping Association of Nashville Tennessee, or PLANT, provides many of the same services as national organizations, but as a more locally based organization. The organization promotes education within the industry as well as the use of local service suppliers. It also voices its opinions on behalf of professional landscaping professionals in legal matters. The organization is governed by a board of directors. As of October 2010, PLANT required a $60 annual membership fee of its members.