CSLA News
CSLA Searching for Next Executive Director
The CSLA, in collaboration with the Discovery Group, has begun the search for an Executive Director for the Fall of 2026, when current Executive Director Michelle Legault will begin her retirement.
We encourage you to share this opportunity with potential candidates.
Webinar: Leading with Landscape: The Port Lands Flood Protection Project
Shannon Baker and Herb Sweeney IV
Thursday, April 30, 3:00-4:30 ET
Two complementary perspectives—one from project delivery, the other from design leadership—come together to examine the Port Lands Flood Protection Project, one of the most ambitious landscape infrastructure and climate adaptation initiatives in Canada.
Did you miss a webinar? Don’t worry! The recordings are available on our website, and you can watch (or rewatch) them anytime. Closed captions are available in both English and French. Visit the webinar archive here.
Request for Proposals: Report on Fee Challenges in Private Landscape Architecture Practice (2026)
The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects is proposing to undertake a study on fees in the landscape architecture profession. This study goal is to investigate the structural and cultural barriers that prevent private firms from charging fees that are in line with those of their professional peers — and the impact this has on firm sustainability and professional compensation across Canada.
Deadline for proposal submissions: April 29, 2026, before 4:00 p.m. EST
2025 AI in Landscape Architecture Survey
In 2025, an academic research team, in collaboration with the CSLA, ASLA and IFLA, conducted a global survey to better understand how artificial intelligence (AI) is being adopted into landscape architecture practice. This survey builds on the results of the previous survey conducted in 2023. Highlights from the 2025 survey and a link to the full report are available on the webpage linked below.
Survey: Which Types of Work Should Be Included in the Calculation of Our Percentage-Based Fees?
The purpose of this survey is to determine which types of work should have their cost included in the calculation of percentage-based professional fees. The goal is to make our fee structure clearer, more consistent, and easier to apply. Although not mandatory, this structure should serve as a reliable reference for clients and professionals, particularly for budgeting and negotiating agreements. It is organized by the AAPQ but is intended for members of all associations affiliated with the CSLA.
Deadline to respond: March, 31st 2026
Current Volunteer Opportunities
Are you interested in volunteering and supporting the work of the CSLA? Our volunteers contribute to professional advocacy, government relations, and the advancement of issues of national relevance to our members. There are many ways to get involved:
- Landscape Architecture Continuing Education Standards Committee (LA CES) Monitoring Committee - CSLA Representative [new deadline]
Deadline to apply: March 31 - Roster of Climate and Biodiversity Champions
- Municipal Roundtable
Member News
Have you or your firm won an award or do you have other news to share with your CSLA colleagues? If so, please send a news bite and any relevant photos to coordinator@csla-aapc.ca.
CELA Awards Dr. Robert Brown Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Robert D. Brown, Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning at Texas A&M University, will be recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award for pioneering research in microclimatic landscape architecture and evidence-based design this month at the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture Conference. His work on thermally comfortable outdoor environments has influenced research and practice globally, supported by more than 140 refereed journal articles and extensive mentorship of students and emerging scholars. The CELA Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes his lasting contributions to landscape architecture research, teaching, and professional leadership.
In memoriam: Don Vaughan
We saddened to announce the passing of Don Vaughan, CSLA member and recipient of the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award, on January 19, 2026.
LACF News
LACF is Seeking a Board Member With Fundraising Experience
The Landscape Architecture Canada Foundation (LACF) is seeking a passionate and committed individual to join its Board of Directors. As a national charitable foundation dedicated to advancing knowledge, promoting research, and supporting students and professionals in landscape architecture across Canada, LACF relies on a strong, strategic board to guide its mission.
We are currently recruiting a board member with demonstrated fundraising experience and fundraising interests to help strengthen and expand LACF’s scholarships and research grants funding.
Deadline to apply: March 24, 2026
Applications Open for the 2026 Frederick Gage Todd National Scholarship
One prize of $15,000 will be awarded in Fall 2026 to an outstanding Canadian student enrolled in a CSLA-accredited program of landscape architecture.
This scholarship recognizes a student who demonstrates exceptional knowledge, skill and commitment directed to the advancement of Canadian landscapes through the practice of landscape architecture.
Deadline: May 7, 2026 at 4pm ET
Applications Open for the 2026 Robert N. Allsopp Urban Design Fellowship
The Robert N. Allsopp Urban Design Fellowship is intended to provide a practicing landscape architect, whose work and exploratory interests are in urban design, with funds for research or pursuing a specific area of inquiry over a five-to-six-month ‘sabbatical’ or with funds to direct a research project. Up to $50,000 is available.
The Fellowship will provide support for urban design research which elevates the art, science, and practice of landscape architecture, contributes to the knowledge base of the profession and is beyond the scope of the projects in their office or practice.
Deadline: June 11, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. ET
Partner News
Climate Training for Municipal Staff and Representatives
The Municipal Climate Adaptation Certificate, offered by the University of Waterloo’s Climate Institute, is a forward-thinking initiative tailored for municipal staff and elected officials across Canada. Through expert-led, practical courses available in both English and French, participants will gain the skills needed to drive locally tailored, equity-informed climate solutions.
All courses have been designed by leading climate adaptation educators at the University of Waterloo, with advice and critical support from Canadian municipalities, government and non-profits.
Leading Green LEED Green Associate Certification Workshops
Start your year off strongly by becoming a LEED Green Associate professional and show employers your certified knowledge in sustainability before May 2026, when the LEED exam is set to become more challenging. While LEED itself is a scorecard to rate Green Buildings, students and professionals can also become LEED accredited demonstrating their expertise in sustainability.
Options:
- March 14 2026 – 1:00PM – 5:30PM EDT
April 11 2026 – 1:00PM – 5:30PM EDT
- OR -
- On-demand recordings completed at your own pace
The above options are all identical.
Cost: $200 with the coupon code sust for $100 off! (Non-members $300)
Please contact info@leadinggreen.com with any questions. If you are new to LEED, see a short introduction here.
IFLA Global Landscape Architecture Awards
Submissions are now open for the IFLA Global Landscape Architecture Awards! The IFLA Global Landscape Architecture Awards are not just about finding the “best-looking” park. They are about recognising projects that are solving the world’s toughest problems.
Why Submit?
- Global Recognition: Winners will be celebrated at the World Congress in Hong Kong.
- Knowledge Sharing: Your work will join the IFLA Hub, influencing research and policy worldwide.
- Inclusive Categories: From Indigenous Knowledge to Food Systems, our 18 categories cover the full spectrum of the profession.
Key Deadlines to Watch:
- Early Bird Deadline: 15 April 2026 (save on entry fees!)
- Standard Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Final Deadline: 1 June 2026
Don’t let your work go unnoticed. Review the categories today and prepare your entry.
2026 RAIC Conference on Architecture
The 2026 RAIC Conference on Architecture is taking place May 5 to 8, 2026 in-person at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre in Vancouver, BC.
The conference brings together hundreds of architectural professionals, thought leaders and industry providers from Canada and abroad for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge exchange. As architecture faces the challenges of climate change, digital transformation, and evolving societal needs, the conference provides a vital platform for exploring solutions, sharing best practices, and shaping the future of the built environment.
Canadian Architect : The International Garden Festival Unveils Winning Projects for 27th Edition
The latest edition of the festival, which is set to open on June 20, 2026, will take place on the site of Les Jardins de Métis – Reford Gardens.
Findings from the Canadian City Parks Report
Read the Canadian City Parks Report: Findings and Impact 2019-2024! This new synthesis report brings together the major findings from the Canadian City Parks Report (CCPR) released annually between 2019- 2024. In 2026, Park People is evolving the CCPR by working with Indigenous colleagues to understand and share approaches to municipal and organizational partnerships that support Indigenous-led urban landcare.
How to get involved? If Indigenous-led or partnered land care initiatives are happening in your city that others could learn from—or if you work for a municipality and are interested in participating in future CCPRs—please contact Joy Sammy at jsammy@parkpeople.ca.
Are you interested in presenting to Ontario’s architecture profession?
The OAA is currently seeking presenters for the fall and winter sessions of its popular Continuing Education Webinar Series. This weekly virtual learning program offers a platform to share insights on a variety of topics related to architecture, including project delivery methods, accessibility, technological advancements, building codes, and themes such as Climate Action and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
To contribute, please submit your proposal through the Association’s online form by Friday, March 6. To help you prepare, you can review the Speaker Handbook for detailed requirements and explore past webinars on the OAA YouTube Channel for inspiration.
For any questions or further information, reach out to Shalika Sivathasan, OAA Continuing Education Administrative Assistant at ShalikaS@oaa.on.ca.
The Art of Leadership Women Conference Returns for 2026
Ready to elevate your leadership? The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary! This one-day conference features an inspiring lineup of speakers sharing actionable strategies and insights on today’s most critical leadership challenges. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams. Join us for an empowering day of learning, networking, and women’s leadership. Use promo code CSLA45 and save $50 per pass, or save $100 per pass for groups of 5 or more. Register at the link below today!