What are the most important industry standards the Landscape Round Table adheres to?

The Landscape Round Table (LRT) maintains rigorous adherence to several critical industry standards that ensure professionalism, safety, and environmental responsibility across landscaping operations. These standards represent consensus-based guidelines developed through collaborative efforts among industry experts, researchers, and practitioners.

One fundamental standard consistently followed is the ANSI A300 series, which provides comprehensive specifications for tree care operations including pruning, fertilization, and tree risk assessment. This standard ensures proper tree management practices that promote plant health while minimizing risks to people and property.

Additionally, the LRT strongly advocates for implementation of the International Society of Arboriculture's Best Management Practices (ISA BMPs). These detailed guidelines cover various aspects of arboriculture from tree planting and soil management to support systems and lightning protection systems. The BMPs represent the most current scientific knowledge and professional experience in tree care.

For sustainable landscape management, the LRT promotes standards outlined in the Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES), which provides comprehensive guidelines for creating and maintaining sustainable landscapes that benefit both environment and community wellbeing. These standards address water conservation, soil health, material selection, and ecosystem services.

The organization also emphasizes compliance with local and national environmental regulations, including water conservation ordinances, integrated pest management protocols, and stormwater management requirements. These standards collectively ensure that landscape professionals deliver services that are technically sound, environmentally responsible, and socially beneficial.

Through regular training programs, certification requirements, and continuing education initiatives, the Landscape Round Table ensures its members remain current with evolving industry standards, technological advancements, and best practices. This commitment to standardization elevates the entire profession while ensuring client satisfaction and environmental stewardship.