Davey adds new biochar facility

The Davey Tree Expert Co. — No. 2 on the 2023 LM150 list — opened its biochar facility in East Dundee, Ill. The facility will recycle wood waste from client properties and turn it into an environmentally friendly soil additive, biochar.

“Biochar is a carbon-rich charcoal-like substance that offers many benefits to the soil,” said Jim Zwack, vice president and general manager, Davey Institute. “Incorporation of biochar into the soil can help resist soil compaction, improve infiltration and retention of water, hold nutrients and absorb salts. It also doesn’t decompose, unlike compost, so it will continue to provide benefits for many years.”

The biochar produced at this facility is not only made of recycled wood waste from client properties, but the opening of the facility will also help Davey reach one of its 2030 goals, to have zero woodchips go to landfills.

“The biochar that we’ll be producing in this facility sets itself apart from other biochar products because it’s created using sustainably-produced wood waste from the work we do on client properties, rather than using non-plant materials or intentionally removing trees just to produce biochar,” said Mike Veney, director, environmental programs, Davey Institute. “We hope our clients see that opening this facility shows that we’re recycling wood waste from the work we do at their properties, which in turn will create a product that’s put back into the environment to benefit the other plants and trees on their landscapes, as well as help the environment as a whole due to biochar’s many sustainable benefits.”

The 4,800-square-foot facility is an expansion of Davey’s mulching operations, which are a set of mulch-producing facilities where wood waste from client properties is used to create natural mulch that is used back on client properties and sold.

“Our mulch facilities and this new biochar facility are all not only great examples of turning waste into a sustainable product for the environment but also turning waste into revenue,” said Veney. “We see the biochar especially having a great impact on the construction and agriculture industries. This biochar facility will be a pilot for us, and we hope to add more biochar-producing facilities in our other markets down the road. We also believe we’re the first green industry company to open a biochar-producing facility, which is something we’re very proud of.”

The facility currently houses one biochar kiln that will operate 24/7 with plans to install a total of three kilns in the future. The biochar produced at the facility will be used on client properties and sold to the general public.

10 Case Construction Equipment dealers receive recognition

Case Construction Equipment recently named the winners of its new Case Dealer Awards program, comprised of four award categories.

“Our dedicated and customer-first dealer network differentiates Case in the market. Across the U.S. and Canada, we have the strength of 66 dealers, 325 locations and more than 7,000 faces of Case providing customer-first sales, service, parts and financing support,” said Terry Dolan, vice president — North America, Case Construction Equipment. “The Case Dealer Awards program recognizes the best of the best.”

Power Abe Award — Progressive Tractor & Implement

Also known as the Case Dealer of the Year Award, the Power Abe Award is given to the dealer who is committed to building the CASE brand and delivers top performance in sales, parts, service and offering Capital financing products to their customers.

J.I. Case Award — Lee Tractor Co.

In recognition of Case’s founder, who was resilient, customer-first and rooted in practical innovation, this year’s award was presented to the dealer with the greatest focus on technology (precision and connected services).

Building Community Award — GT Mid Atlantic

The heart of the Case brand is building (and rebuilding) community. This award recognizes the dealer who goes above and beyond in exhibiting Case’s brand purpose. GT Mid Atlantic won for its work with Construction Angels and will receive a $10,000 donation for this deserving nonprofit.

Power Tan Awards

These awards are earned for high sales performance by product category.

• Backhoe loader, tractor loader, forklift: Bingham Equipment Co.
• Skid steer loader, compact track loader: Torgerson’s
• Dozer: Hills Machinery Co.
• Motor grader: Scott Equipment
• Compaction: Border Equipment
• Mini excavator: Progressive Tractor & Implement
• Full size and midi excavator: Progressive Tractor & Implement
• Wheel loader: Hitrac
• Compact wheel loader: ASCO Equipment

New case study highlights Scythe’s M.52

Scythe Robotics published a case study showcasing the capabilities of M.52, the company’s all-electric, fully autonomous commercial mower. The M.52 delivered a successful test deployment for the Turfscape crew that services John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio.

Turfscape, a service provider for commercial properties, collaborated with Scythe to improve operating efficiencies and service quality. The partnership also allowed Scythe to gather insights on mowing in a new region and test remote serviceability for the machines.

“We are thrilled to share the success story of our collaboration with Turfscape,” said Michael Mayberry, director of customer success for Scythe Robotics. “This case study details the impact M.52 can create and exemplifies Scythe’s commitment to delivering innovative mowing solutions that meet the unique challenges faced by our clients in caring for commercial properties.”

The Turfscape team operating on-site deployed a pair of M.52 units to the 60-acre university campus, with a full-service grounds maintenance program that includes lawn care, mowing and maintenance, trash patrol and spring and fall cleanup.

After an initial assessment of how to best fit M.52 into the program, the crew quickly took ownership of the mowers and realized their potential.

“Before M.52, I would alternate weeks trimming and edging the baseball and softball fields,” said Turfscape job supervisor Taylor Laduca, describing the task flow for maintaining the athletics complex. “But now with the robot on the crew, I can do both on a weekly basis, assuring that the quality is always up to par.“

Autonomous mowing also allowed the crew to focus on the rest of the program’s requirements across campus and proactively tackle the to-do list. The Turfscape operators said using M.52 was equivalent to adding another crew member to the team, without adding labor costs.

“One of the most common questions I get is, ‘Are you afraid that it’s going to take your job?’” explained Turfscape field manager Joe Laduca. “And the answer is, no I’m not. At first, I was a little skeptical like that but now that I’ve mowed with M.52, I couldn’t imagine working any other way.”

Greenworks adds two new facilities to bolster operations in North America

Greenworks is set to open two facilities in Nevada and Ontario, Canada. The buildings encompass warehouse, office and creative studio space, allowing the company to strengthen operations in North America and provide faster delivery on the West Coast. Opening March 1, the Greenworks West Coast Warehouse and Service Center will assist with distribution and feature a commercial service repair center.

The Greenworks Ontario Canadian Headquarters and Warehouse, which opened last fall, includes the trilingual North America Customer Service Team, a sales showroom, repair center, distribution center and a photo and video studio.

“We’re excited to announce the grand opening of our latest investments, which expands the Greenworks footprint and business operations deeper into our commercial, direct-to-consumer and retail partnerships,” said Klaus Hahn, president of Greenworks North America. “The new state-of-the-art Reno warehouse will enable delivery West of the Rockies in 48 hours or less, and the Ontario, Canada, facility will strengthen our operations and superior customer service.”

The Greenworks West Coast Warehouse and Service Center and the 102,000-square-foot building include more than 4,400 square feet of modern office space.

“The Reno warehouse will include our West Coast service technology center and our Greenworks Commercial Learning Center, where our dealers and staff will have the best training to service our customers’ needs,” said Tony Marchese, senior vice president of Greenworks Commercial.

The Greenworks Ontario Warehouse, located in Holland Landing, Ontario, is a 313,000-square-foot building, which includes 29,000 square feet of office space and a showroom. The facility hosts the Greenworks North America Customer Service team, a diverse group of over 50 specialists fluent in English, French and Spanish dedicated to assisting customers with all their needs.

In addition to these two facilities, Greenworks North America includes warehouse, distribution and office space in Mooresville, N.C.; an assembly line, warehouse and distribution in Morristown, Tenn.; and a 500,000-square-foot B2C and retail distribution center in Morganton, N.C., which also is equipped with the AGV Robotic Automation Shipping System.

Harrell’s awarded new cooperative contract

Harrell’s has a new competitively solicited public sector contract with the city of Rochester Hills, Mich. providing public sector agencies access through OMNIA Partners. OMNIA Partners services both private and public sector organizations, improving the way their members find, buy and obtain goods and services. Participating agencies of OMNIA Partners gain access to a community of thoroughly vetted vendors, industry experts and data that make the purchasing process seamless and efficient.

Greg Nicoll, Harrell’s vice president of turf sales, has worked with OMNIA Partners for many years at Harrell’s and helped customers take advantage of their benefits in multiple organizations.

“Harrell’s is thrilled to announce our new contract through OMNIA Partners, continuing our commitment to providing streamlined and efficient product solutions for public agencies,” said Nicoll.

Over its 23 years, OMNIA Partners have developed a portfolio of over a thousand contract solutions with 94 percent of the population served through agencies using OMNIA Partners. Harrell’s partnership with OMNIA Partners helps to deliver more value, purchasing power, connection and service to customers. Organizations can register for free here.

Beacon Impatiens reveals 2024 charity supporting multiple sclerosis fundraising

For the 2024 gardening season, PanAmerican Seed and its popular brand of Beacon Impatiens will partner with the local chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to support their fundraising efforts and help fight a disease that affects 2.8 million worldwide. To date, donations from Beacon Impatiens have climbed over $290,000.

“Every day the National MS Society is driven by its mission that ‘We will cure MS while empowering people affected by MS to live their best lives’,” said Cyndi Zagieboylo, president and CEO of the National MS Society. “We are grateful for PanAmerican Seed’s partnership in this effort.”

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that interferes with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body due to damage to the
myelin coating around nerve fibers in the central nervous system.

As part of a dedicated mission to “shine the light,” PanAmerican Seed has committed to donating a percentage of its global seed sales to a new charity each year.

“This year, PanAmerican Seed couldn’t pass up the opportunity to act hyper-locally for the chance to impact awareness and assistance for a disease known worldwide,” said Sarah Makiejus, global marketing manager for PanAmerican Seed. “We all know someone who’s received a life-changing diagnosis, and our 2024 MS charity choice comes with a personal connection. Now, through colorful gardens around the world, plus active participation in local fundraising events, Beacon is ready to join the fight against MS to help make a difference.”

Beyond the monetary donation at the completion of the 2024 season, PanAmerican Seed will share in hands-on fundraising by participating in BikeMS events. It will also build awareness through Beacon’s social media channels and website, as well as customer and media relations.

Those interested in assisting can contact their preferred supplier for seed availability.

Weed Man 2023 expansion report

Weed Man, No. 10 on the 2023 LM150 list, achieved record-breaking expansion in 2023 with 13 percent net system sales growth. The growth consists of 15 expansions into new territories and 12 acquisitions.

The expansion deals – from existing franchisees looking to expand their business after seeing record success in their established territories – will bring an additional 51 Weed Man territories to Connecticut, Texas, Ohio, Tennessee, Michigan, California, New Jersey, Indiana, Alabama, Georgia, Pennsylvania and Missouri.

“We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm of our current – and new – franchisees as we continue to grow the Weed Man footprint,” said Jennifer Lemcke, CEO of Weed Man. “Throughout the last year, we saw a lot of forward momentum which included an updated franchisee contract that will allow us to continue the development of our tools that lead to our franchisee’s success.”

Each Weed Man owner is equipped by the franchisor with aspects of business operations, including administration, technical, marketing, business planning and budgeting. As an additional layer of local support, every Weed Man franchisee is supported by their experienced regional franchisor who serves as a personal consultant.

Additionally, the brand was ranked No. 1 on the list of Best Lawn Care Service Companies by Forbes. The Forbes ratings take into account factors like overall customer happiness, states serviced, number of services available, free cost estimate availability, work guarantees, licensing or accreditation and awards. (All ratings are determined solely by their editorial team)