ASLA UTAH SEPTEMBER 2025 NEWSLETTER

UPCOMING EVENTS

SAVE THE DATE - Friday, May 8th 2026

2026 ASLA Utah Annual Conference

The Ballpark at America First Square home of the Salt Lake Bees

LEADERSHIP EXPRESS -

Lars Erickson, ASLA Utah President

Hello ASLA Utah!!!

It’s that time again—the National ASLA Conference is quickly approaching. This year, it will be held in New Orleans from May 8–10. While I won’t be attending, Jesse Allen will be representing our chapter. Upon his return, Jesse will step into the role of Utah Chapter President, and I’m genuinely excited to see his perspective and talents guide us forward.

Aaron Johnson will also be attending. He’ll be taking over Jesse’s current role and spending the next 12 months learning the ropes. Both Jesse and Aaron will participate in several meetings with national and chapter leaders, discussing key initiatives and coordinating efforts that require strong leadership. From my own experience, it’s an eye-opening opportunity that brings back fresh ideas and renewed energy to serve our chapter and support its members.

This coordination can have a meaningful impact on all of us as practitioners. I encourage you to get involved—reach out to someone on the Executive Committee, ask questions, and offer your help. Your voice matters.

As my term as ASLA Utah Chapter President comes to a close, I want to share a few final thoughts. Serving in this role has been a deeply rewarding experience. The best part has been the many conversations I’ve had with you—fellow landscape architects—about our shared practice. There’s a lot of passion in our ranks, and it’s been truly enlightening.

One recent conversation stands out. A colleague asked me to explain the value of ASLA membership. It caught me off guard—not because it’s hard to explain, but because this individual isn’t a member, yet uses “ASLA” after their name. That moment reminded me how important it is to understand and communicate the return on investment of membership. Below is a short list of benefits— it’s not exhaustive, a little messy but there’s real value there:

Ultimately, our practice defines the profession of Landscape Architecture. How will you define it? If you use “ASLA” after your name, you’re signaling your commitment to the premier organization advocating for us. That designation carries meaning, and it belongs to ASLA members. I encourage you to continue using it—and more importantly, to participate, ask questions, and share your perspective. Your insight helps shape our profession.

To those who use “ASLA” without being members, doing so also speak volumes about the value and importance of the organization. We need you too. Maybe even a little more so. I hope to see many of you May 8th at the 2026 Annual Conference on Landscape Architecture. Details will be shared soon.

All the Best, Lars Erickson, ASLA Utah President

Who are you and where are you from? My name is Galen Kohlbrecher, and I grew up in Illinois. I am a Junior studying Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning at Utah State University.

Why are you interested in landscape architecture? I got interested in Landscape Architecture after Dave Anderson gave me a tour of the department in my Junior year of High School. I’m interested in Landscape Architecture because it is a variety of degrees all packed together. It’s tough to name everything because I know I would leave something out. However, landscape architecture is an opportunity to learn about the base level of numerous topics. Right now, I am fascinated with Urban Design and Planting Design.They sound like two totally separate topics, but landscape architecture finds a way to connect them.

What is your favorite thing about LA studio? There is no place on the Campus like the studio. In my freshman year, I was lectured on the importance of studio culture and its importance to our degree and occupation. I have built great friendships in the studio through working long hours with people who are passionate about the same things as I am. My favorite thing about the studio is the comradery that is developed with the different classes and degrees.

What is your favorite hobby? Since coming out to Utah I have been able to learn how to rock climb. This is a fun but time-demanding hobby and as I get more involved in extracurriculars, I find that I only have time to run. During the fall, when I find the time, you can find me trail running or hiking in the canyon.

What do you find inspiring? What first comes to mind is the work being done at SCAPE. They see climate change as a large-scale issue meant to be solved with large projects. Being from the St. Louis area, I admire firms doing innovative urban design work to revive cities and neighborhoods while also considering the ecological function of things.

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!

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