Landscape companies adapt amid the COVID-19 pandemic Email
Written by Christy Eull   
Tuesday, April 07, 2020 01:00 AM

business planningLandscape companies are adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic in different ways. Some are able to continue working under the “essential services” definition in Colorado. Others have opted to delay operations they deem non-essential in order to “flatten the curve” and keep their team and the public safe. All companies must alter their operations in some way and find new ways to be successful.

ALCC is sharing resources and ideas from Colorado landscape companies on its blog. Below are some of the anecdotes shared with ALCC in the last two weeks:  

  • Timberline Landscaping has expanded their portfolio of services to offer outdoor sanitization services. They were featured on KRDO last week.
  • Grounds Guys of Parker is building mobile handwashing stations for crew members.
  • A company owner noted that they are not applying fertilizer as they normally might at this time of year. This could help reduce the amount of labor spent on mowing going forward.
  • Some are limiting irrigation (especially for Kentucky bluegrass) to slow growth.
  • Some maintenance companies were focusing on applying pre-emergent to help keep weeds at bay in anticipation of the possibility that companies could be asked or required to pause operations, either by clients or by government.
  • Be aware that if your employees are driving themselves to the work site, you may be required to reimburse for mileage.
  • Owners have realized the importance of communicating with customers. See how Fisk Lawnscapes in Colorado Springs communicated to clients in the earlier days of the pandemic response.
  • Company leaders have noted that they are focusing on small-crew, small-scale projects.
  • Owners are also determining a worst-case scenario for the business and making a plan for how to cut hours or lay off staff if it becomes necessary.
  • Another owner sought advice from experts about options for both keeping staff safe and ensuring they have enough income to pay the bills.
  • Others are eliminating owner pay and reducing admin staff pay to help cover expenses and payroll.
  • One company owner advised checking with loan officers and insurance companies to see if any bills can be put on hold if needed.

Colorado landscape company owners and employees are encouraged to share their experiences with applying for relief via stimulus packages, offer their tips and resources, or ask questions at [email protected]. ALCC will continue to respond via their blog and will ask relevant questions at upcoming webinars, including a webinar scheduled for April 15 to discuss landscape industry HR and business issues related to the pandemic.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
Leading your business through the pandemic
Worksite safety is more important than ever

FFCRA: tax credits, paid sick leave, economic injury disaster loans, and more

CARES Act resources for businesses