We Define Landscape Design
The Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) is an international organization founded in 1989. Our mission is to advance the profession of landscape design and to promote the recognition of landscape designers as qualified and dedicated professionals. APLD members adhere to a code of professional standards, participate in continuing education and stay up to date on new developments and the latest trends. The APLD certification program-the only one of its kind-provides professional recognition to designers who successfully undergo a rigorous peer-review process. Professional designers can help clients achieve the gardens they truly desire. Why hire a designer?
About APLD
APLDWA Membership
The Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to establishing the highest standards for the landscape design profession. Formed in 2000, the Washington Chapter (APLDWA) is the oldest chapter in the nation.
Our Mission
The mission of APLD is to advance the profession of landscape design, and to promote our members as qualified and dedicated professionals.
Why join?
Along with being a member of a professional group that continually strives to set its members apart from other practitioners who do not have the same level of education or professional qualifications, there are numerous benefits.
Member Benefits
Professional Growth
APLDWA Events – approximately four local events each year offering professional growth, networking, and Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
APLDWA Peer Oriented Discussion groups (PODs). These groups connect new designers with seasoned members in a small-group format.
National educational webinars.
The Designer, APLD’s national quarterly publication. Monthly National and Washington Chapter newsletters.
Discounted fee to the APLD International Landscape Design Conference.
Eligibility to enter APLD’s International Landscape Design Awards competition for both professional and student members.
Networking
APLDWA Chapter Members Only Google Group chat room, a great resource for topics of interest.
Make contacts, forge strong connections in your industry as a member of APLDWA. We create plenty of opportunities to network with fellow designers, contractors, suppliers and other green industry members. Be it through our APLDWA Google Group, our PODs, or in-person events. One of the best ways to connect with peers is by volunteering. In a committee, on the board, or in a smaller role. As proven by our volunteers!
National Certification
APLD’s certification program offers professional recognition to landscape designers based on established standards of excellence, the only landscape design certification program in the United States. For more information: apld.org/certification
Business & Legislative Advocacy
Advocacy–Monitor and update members on pertinent national and state legislative and regulatory changes, which can affect our ‘right to practice’ landscape design.
Sample proposals, contracts and documents, customized for individual businesses.
APLDWA informs members about local codes and best practices, i.e. Green Factor, Stormwater Management Codes, Low Impact Development (LID) methods of practice.
Professional Visibility
Listing on the National website Find a Designer Directory for Professional members.
Individual member/company portfolio on the National website.
Recognition of member accomplishments, i.e. awards, activities, publications.
Permitted use of APLD logo on print and website material. Certified members may utilize the APLD acronym following their name in all personal, professional marketing material.
Renewal Periods:
APLD offers two renewal periods of either January 1 – December 31 or July 1 – June 30. New members do not receive a prorated amount as applications received from October 1 – December 31 will be included in the January 1 – December 31 membership cycle and applications received from April 1 – June 30 will be included in the July 1 – June 30 membership cycle.
