ASLA UTAH AUGUST 2025 NEWSLETTER

UPCOMING EVENTS

LEADERSHIP EXPRESS - 5301: Part 2, The “Practice of landscape architecture”. What does it mean, to you?

Lars Erickson, ASLA Utah President

Hello ASLA Utah!!!

I’ve only heard from one of you concerning my request last month. I don’t think that’s on our chapter membership as much as the archaic nature of a newsletter. But we’ll continuing building with last months message, here’s what the State of Utah defines the “Practice of Landscape Architecture” as… Effective 10/1/2024 58-53-102. Definitions. In addition to the definitions in Section 58-1-102, as used in this chapter:

(3) Practice of landscape architecture; means rendering or offering to render any of the following services:

(a) production of a site plan which may include the design of any of the following:

(i) sprinkler irrigation systems;

(ii) landscape grading and drainage plans; or

(iii) parking lots;

(b) design of any of the following structures incidental to the production of a site plan:

(i) retaining walls; or

(ii) raised platforms, decks, and walkways;

(c) design of any of the following structures incidental to the production of a site plan when the structure does not exceed 1,000 square feet:

(i) covered pavilions;

(ii) gazebos;

(iii) restrooms;

(iv) storage and maintenance facilities; or

(v) other accessory structures; or

(d) collaboration with architects and professional engineers in the design of roads, bridges, buildings, and structures with respect to the functional and aesthetic requirements of the area in which they are to be placed.

If you’ve been following my messages at all the past year, you won’t be surprised that I find this description fairly limiting. Even more limiting is what’s continued in Utah Code Title 58, Chapter 53 Landscape Architects Licensing Act:304 Exemptions from licensure:

(2) a person designing sprinkler irrigation systems when licensed as a landscape contractor under Title 58, Chapter 55, Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act;

(3) a person licensed to practice professional engineering or professional structural engineering under Title 58, Chapter 22, Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors Licensing Act; (4a person licensed to practice architecture under Title 58, Chapter 3a, Architects) Licensing Act;

Did you know this? Is it a concern to you? We as Landscape Architects define what weare by how we practice in addition to how we discuss our profession. WE NEED TO HEAR WHAT YOU THINK ON THIS. NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD. I’m not looking to back up what I think. Our chapter needs to know if this is important to you. I just don’t think the silence I’ve been hearing is acceptance of the status quo. So again I ask…

What does it mean to you? Do you think we should define what we do with comparisons to architects and engineers? I’d love to know what you think. Send me an email larserickson@gmail.com with the subject line RE: -5301. I hope to hear from you.

All the best, Lars Erickson, ASLA UT President

Introducing: Dear Landscape Architect — A New Feature for ASLA Utah Members

Have a tricky client question? Curious how other firms approach design, trends, hiring, software standards, billing rates, or work-life balance? Need guidance on licensure, mentorship, or your next career move?

**We’re excited to announce the launch of** “***Dear Landscape Architect*** “— a new monthly feature in the ASLA Utah newsletter created by members, for members.

Each month, we will select questions submitted anonymously by our ASLA Utah community and share responses from a diverse panel of seasoned professionals. Think of it as an advice column meets professional roundtable — candid, thoughtful, and tailored specifically to landscape architects in Utah.

Who’s Answering? Your questions will be reviewed by a panel of 5–6 landscape architects from a mix of practice types and experience levels — including principals from large firms, senior associates at regionally focused firms, and leaders of small local studios. We’re building a team that reflects the diversity of our profession, offering you a range of perspectives and insights.

Have a Question? No question is too small — or too big. Just send your inquiry to: dearlautah@gmail.com. Your name will remain confidential, and selected questions will be featured with responses in our monthly newsletter.

Let Dear Landscape Architect be your new go-to for peer-driven advice. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro yourself, we all benefit from the shared knowledge of our community. Start sending in those questions!

Election Results: 2025-2026 Utah ASLA Executive Committee

We are pleased to announce the results of the 2025 Utah ASLA Chapter Elections — with all four candidates running unopposed, we’re excited to welcome this talented group of professionals to the Executive Committee.

Aaron Johnson will be rejoining the Executive Committee as President Elect, ending a two-year break since his last term as VP of Visibility & Public Affairs. We are glad to welcome Aaron back, bringing his experience and leadership to the chapter.
Tanner Snow returns for a second term as Vice President of Professional Development, continuing to guide our professional growth efforts.
Critter Coughlin has been elected as Vice President of Membership & Member Services, stepping into the role previously held by Tyler Smithson. Critter has already been a valuable member of the committee, and we’re excited for his continued involvement. A big thank you to Tyler Smithson, who has done an outstanding job organizing our membership drives and awards program—we appreciate all the time and care he brought to the position.
McKenna Montgomery will serve as our new Vice President of Visibility & Public Affairs, taking over from Josh Quigley. McKenna has already been actively assisting the committee, and we’re thrilled to have her step into a leadership role. Many thanks to Josh for his work and thoughtful groundwork in this area.

Looking Ahead: We are excited to move into this new year of leadership with Jesse Allen as President, Lars Erickson as Past-President, and we extend our best wishes to Paul Stead, who has completed his term and will continue to contribute to the profession in new ways.

To our outgoing VPs—Tyler Smithson and Josh Quigley—we sincerely appreciate your service and hope to see you continue your involvement through committees and chapter events.

We Need You!

ASLA Utah continues to promote and protect the landscape architecture profession—and we can always use more help! If you’re interested in joining a committee, assisting with even just one event, or just pitching in here and there, please reach out. Your support makes all the difference.

Here’s to another great year for ASLA Utah Chapter!

MEET YOUR NEWLY ELECTED ASLA UTAH EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

New members will be automatically entered into a drawing for a chance to win.

Second entry period: April 12, 2025 – October 12, 2025

Second Drawing: Held at the ASLA Awards Ceremony in October 2025

Additional Details:

You do not need to be present to win.
Winners will be selected at random by the ASLA Utah
To enter, visit ASLA Join Page or scan the QR code.

Special Thanks to ASLA Utah 2025 Sponsors & Corporate Partners for their Support!

Platinum Sponsors
BioGrass | Great Western Recreation | Rain Bird

Corporate Partners
Denton House | FenceTrac | G Brown Design