September 15, 2012
By Kristen McIntyre

You have created beautiful landscapes. You have manicured lawns. You have lit the landscape in the night sky. You have enhanced the lives of all those who bear witness to the magnificent work of art that you constructed.

Now it’s time to show it off.

Entries are now being accepted into LO’s construction, maintenance and design Awards of Excellence programs until Oct. 1. Take your photos and start the online entry process now; don’t wait until the deadline.

I have been part of the LO family for many years, and I have honestly heard every imaginable excuse to submit entries past the deadline. While I do truly admire the creativity and imaginative explanations, it is appreciated if you please get your submissions in on time.

Submissions are made at www.loawards.com and under Construction, Maintenance and Design you will find entry guidelines and categories. You require a user name and password if have not already created one with Landscape Ontario. You can work on your entry and log out/in at any time before the deadline. Until you have entered payment information, your entry is not officially submitted.

When you login, you will need:
  • Contact information of person entering on behalf of company
  • Six to 15 photos of the project at maximum file size in .JPG format
  • A point form ‘project summary,’ describing what you were trying to achieve with your project, including any quirks/conditions imposed by the property owner, conservation authority, etc.
  • You will be prompted to print an Authorization Signatures form  during your submission
  • Credit card information for payment

Winners will be announced at the ceremony on Tues., Jan. 8, 2013, at the Doubletree Hilton Hotel in conjunction with the annual Congress trade show; plaques will be presented at that time.

Just announced, this year’s ceremony is being presented by Draglam Salt and Earthco Soil Mixtures, and Sheridan Nurseries is also confirmed as a supporting sponsor. What a supportive industry! All entrants into this year’s program will receive an invitation, including one complimentary ticket (per entry received) to the ceremony. Winners will not be notified prior to the ceremony.

Never entered before? No worries! If you need some help with your entry or have questions, let me know and I will be happy to walk you through the process – kristen@landscapeontario.com.