Introduction

Effective grounds maintenance and landscaping are essential for creating safe, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable outdoor environments. This course covers modern landscaping techniques, sustainable maintenance practices, smart irrigation systems, and environmental considerations. Participants will gain practical and strategic knowledge to manage outdoor spaces efficiently while integrating new technologies and sustainability trends.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will:

• Understand the principles of modern landscaping and grounds maintenance.
• Implement sustainable and eco-friendly landscaping practices.
• Utilize smart irrigation and water management systems.
• Enhance safety, risk management, and pest control strategies.
• Integrate technology for data-driven grounds maintenance.

Who Should Attend?

• Facility and Grounds Managers
• Landscape Designers and Contractors
• Real Estate and Property Managers
• Environmental and Sustainability Professionals
• Municipal and Public Works Officials
• Golf Course and Park Maintenance Professionals

Course Outline

Day 1: Fundamentals of Grounds Maintenance and Landscaping

Session 1: Principles of Modern Landscaping

• Landscape design concepts and site planning
• Types of landscapes: urban, residential, commercial, and recreational
• The role of landscaping in environmental sustainability

Session 2: Soil Management and Plant Selection

• Soil testing, conditioning, and nutrient management
• Selecting appropriate plants for different environments
• Native and drought-resistant plants for sustainable landscaping

Day 2: Smart Landscaping Technologies and Digital Tools

Session 1: Smart Irrigation and Water Management

• Drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and moisture sensors
• Efficient water use and conservation strategies
• Climate-responsive irrigation systems

Session 2: Data-Driven Grounds Maintenance

• Using GIS mapping and drone technology for landscape planning
• Predictive maintenance using AI and IoT sensors
• Digital tools for tracking landscaping operations and budgets

Day 3: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Session 1: Green Landscaping Practices

• Organic and chemical-free landscaping approaches
• Sustainable turf management and composting techniques
• The benefits of green roofs and vertical gardens

Session 2: Environmental and Climate Adaptation Strategies

• Mitigating the impact of climate change on landscaping
• Carbon sequestration and urban greening initiatives
• Wildlife-friendly and biodiversity-supporting landscapes

Day 4: Safety, Risk Management, and Pest Control

Session 1: Grounds Safety and Risk Mitigation

• Identifying and managing hazards in landscaping environments
• Equipment safety, protective gear, and OSHA compliance
• Emergency preparedness for extreme weather events

Session 2: Integrated Pest and Disease Management

• Sustainable pest control methods
• Identifying and managing common plant diseases
• Biological controls and eco-friendly pest prevention

Day 5: Future Trends and Strategic Planning in Landscaping

Session 1: Smart Cities and Landscaping Innovations

• The integration of landscaping in urban development
• The impact of autonomous mowers and robotic maintenance
• How AI and automation are transforming grounds management

Session 2: Landscape Business and Facility Management Strategies

• Budgeting, resource allocation, and cost optimization
• Sustainable procurement and vendor management
• Final case study workshop and certification ceremony

Conclusion

This course provides professionals with the expertise to manage and maintain landscapes that are visually appealing, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective. By integrating modern technology, sustainability principles, and safety protocols, participants will be equipped to enhance green spaces in urban and commercial settings.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Certified Grounds Maintenance and Landscaping Manager (CGMLM) Certificate, validating their expertise in sustainable landscaping, grounds management, and innovative maintenance practices.