Industry News & Resources
Stay informed with articles, research and resources covering issues and trends affecting Southern California’s landscape industry.
Lake Mead Falls to a Record Low
The New York Times | August 9, 2026
Lake Mead has fallen to its lowest water level since the reservoir was filled nearly 90 years ago, underscoring the growing challenges facing the Colorado River system and the millions of people who depend on it for water.
[Read the article]
I Wanted an Ecologically Responsible Garden. It Was Harder Than I Thought.
The New York Times Magazine | July 7, 2026
A thought-provoking look at the native plant movement and the complexities of creating landscapes that support biodiversity. The article explores the benefits of native plants while examining some of the questions surrounding what makes a garden truly ecologically responsible.
[Read the article]
This Invasive Insect Threatens California’s Wine Industry. It’s Been Linked to Another Costco-Sold Plant.
Los Angeles Times | July 14, 2026
California officials are working to contain the glassy-winged sharpshooter after the invasive pest was discovered on desert willow plants sold at Costco. The insect can spread Pierce’s disease to grapevines and can also affect citrus, landscape plants and other crops.
[Read the article]
SoCal Boy Was Killed by Massive Tree Branch at Summer Camp; $19.3-Million Settlement Reached
Los Angeles Times | July 1, 2026
A $19.3-million settlement following the death of an 8-year-old struck by a falling tree branch at a Calabasas summer camp highlights the serious consequences associated with hazardous trees and tree maintenance.
[Read the article]
Californians, Pay Attention: The Colorado River Is Drying Up at Its Headwaters
Los Angeles Times | July 1, 2026
A look at troubling conditions at the Colorado River's headwaters, where low snowpack and an exceptionally dry landscape are adding to concerns about the future of a water source relied upon by millions of people throughout the West.
[Read the article]
10 Beloved L.A. Trees That Angelenos Should Enjoy — and Protect at All Costs
Los Angeles Times | January 29, 2024
From native coast live oaks to some of the city's most distinctive landmark trees, this guide celebrates 10 noteworthy trees found throughout Los Angeles and the history, ecology and communities connected to them.
[Read the article]
L.A.’s Zone Zero
L.A. Material | 2026
An in-depth look at the debate surrounding California's proposed Zone 0 wildfire regulations and what they could mean for landscaping within five feet of structures. The article explores the evolving regulations, the research behind them and concerns about how the rules could affect Los Angeles gardens and landscapes.
[Read the article]
Anti-Venom Pills May Soon Be on the Way as the State Deals With Increasing Snakebite Fear
Los Angeles Times | April 25, 2026
Following several snakebite fatalities in California, researchers are working on an oral rescue treatment that could potentially be taken immediately after a snakebite while a victim seeks emergency medical care. The article also discusses recent snakebite risks and treatment developments.
[Read the article]
Californian Is Infected With Rare Tick-Borne Illness. What to Know About the Deadly Bacteria.
Los Angeles Times | June 15, 2026
California health officials confirmed a rare case of the tick-borne bacteria Rickettsia lanei in Northern California. The article looks at the illness, the ticks that can transmit spotted-fever bacteria and what Californians should know about tick-related risks.
[Read the article]