April 2010

Previous Issues
Industry News

Clause allows HST savings on pre-payment of service

LO members may want to take advantage of the pre-payment clause in the HST system that allows for an eight per cent tax saving if payment is made before May 1.

Hot and dry weather expected this summer

According to Environment Canada, Ontario will see a warmer and drier summer.

Congress 2010 saves 139 trees

This is the second year that Congress has been involved in the Zero Waste Certificate program.

In memoriam — Mark Smith

Mark Smith, a dedicated employee of Scott’s Landscaping of Jerseyville, passed away suddenly at home on Mar. 10, 2010, at the age of 38

Harmonized Sales Tax and landscape contractors

By Richard Rizzo
On July 1, 2010 the Ontario Retail Sales Tax (RST) will be combined with the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) to create a federally administered Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).

Agency clarifies unlabelled tank mixes

By Denise Beaton
There are a few benefits to tank mixing pest control products, such as saving time and fuel by making fewer trips over the crop with the sprayer.

Minimum wage hike to $10.25

As of Mar. 31, the minimum wage in Ontario has increased 75 cents an hour.

Flowers Canada names new director

Andrew Kuyvenhoven, president of the Flowers Canada Board of Directors, has announced that Dean Shoemaker is the organization’s new executive director.

Self-employed may qualify for EI benefits

Self-employed individuals may register for Employment Insurance (EI) special benefits as of Jan. 31, 2010.

Fund of $300,000 for greening streets

A total of $300,000 in funding is available immediately for municipalities as part of the Greening of Main Street project.

CFIA working on citrus longhorned beetle regs

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency have asked for the industry’s help to be on the look-out for the possible presence of citrus longhorned beetle.