Industry’s brightest stars celebrated at iconic Denver venue with record engagement  and recognition

DENVER, CO – November 13, 2025 – The Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (ALCC) transformed a crisp November evening into an unforgettable celebration of landscape excellence as it hosted the 2025 ELITE Awards Reception on November 12th at Mile High Station. The industrial-chic venue, steps from Denver’s iconic Broncos stadium, provided the perfect sophisticated backdrop for honoring the brightest stars in Colorado’s landscape industry.

This year’s event continued the momentum of record-breaking participation, drawing over 200 landscape professionals, for an evening of recognition, networking, and inspiration in a vibrant, business-professional setting that elevated the celebration to new heights.

For more than fifty years, the ELITE Awards have been the only statewide program recognizing landscape companies and professionals across Colorado for their exceptional professionalism, innovative practices, environmental stewardship, and outstanding results.

“The caliber of work recognized tonight represents the very best of Colorado’s landscape industry, innovation, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” said ALCC Chief Executive Officer John McMahon. “The exceptional turnout and energy at Mile High Station reflect how much our industry values recognizing outstanding achievement. These award-winning landscapes demonstrate the artistry and expertise that make Colorado’s outdoor spaces truly remarkable.”

The ELITE Awards feature categories that mirror the diverse services provided by ALCC member companies, and comprehensive recognition in every facet of Colorado’s landscape industry is celebrated for its contributions to communities across the state. The evening also honored exceptional individuals with Volunteer Service Awards and Most Valued Player (MVP) awards, recognizing those whose dedication and service extend beyond their daily work to strengthen the entire industry.

Attendees celebrated the incredible projects that earned recognition and the companies behind them. Mile High Station’s distinctive character, combining historic industrial architecture with modern amenities, created an atmosphere that perfectly reflected the industry’s blend of tradition and innovation.

“The evening was full of industry connection, community and reflection on the hard work and passion that goes into our outdoor spaces throughout the entire year,” McMahon added. “The ELITE Awards remind us that exceptional landscaping is a year-round commitment that requires skill, vision, and dedication.”

The 2025 ELITE Awards not only showcased the best in landscaping but also highlighted the ongoing importance of this industry to Colorado’s communities and environment. From sustainable water management to innovative design solutions, this year’s winners demonstrated how landscape professionals are meeting Colorado’s unique challenges while creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces.

The 2025 ELITE Awards recipients and a brief description of their project submissions are as follows:

Design Build  – Commercial:

Arcadia Design Group for 2 DTC. Gold ELITE Award for Commercial Design/Build.

The 2023 renovation in Greenwood Village transformed NexGen’s outdated corporate headquarters with new grading, walkways, retaining walls, sustainable plantings, and upgraded lighting to match its retro-modern architecture. Despite record rainfall and tight logistics around an occupied building, temporary drainage and daily coordination ensured success. An ET-based irrigation system cut water use by 40%, creating a modern, eco-friendly space.  

Residential Design Build – Renovation:  

Timberline Landscaping for Living in Harmony. Bronze ELITE Award for Design/Build – Renovation, Midsize Budget ($150-250K).

An Artful Connection to Nature. Completed in 2021 in Colorado Springs for a singer-songwriter, this project turned the property into a serene sanctuary with a preserved lightning-struck tree, bubbling water feature, sculptural elements, and native plants. Stormwater, privacy, and wildlife challenges were met with grading, screening, and GreenCO BMPs. Featured on HGTV and 5280 Home, it’s a sustainable retreat blending art and nature.  

Alpine Gardens for High Country Haven. Silver ELITE Award for Design/Build – Renovation, Large Budget ($250K and above).

This 2023 Estes Park renovation fixed water damage with a 40-foot moss rock water feature, stone steps, patios, and custom metal art. Steep slopes, limited access, bedrock, and weather were handled via phased planning. Sustainable features include drainage, drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, and low-voltage lighting for a safe, striking mountain haven.  

C&H Landscaping for Harmony in the Foothills. Silver ELITE Award for Design/Build – Renovation, Large Budget ($250K and above).

Completed in 2022 in Morrison, this steep-site transformation added multi-tiered boulder walls, patios, a cascading water feature, and xeric plants. Access, grading, and weather issues were solved with phased scheduling and erosion control. Drip irrigation and soil amendments ensure low-maintenance beauty in harmony with nature.  

Landscape Connection for Washington Park. Gold ELITE Award for Design/Build, Renovation, Small Budget (under $100K).

This 2021 Denver renovation, inspired by French courtyards, includes formal beds, gravel paths, hydrangeas, lavender, catmint, peonies, an iron fence, trellis, and lighting. Sun exposure challenges were addressed with adaptive design, creating an elegant, low-water pollinator garden with year-round interest.  

Phase One Landscapes for Chandler Residence. Bronze ELITE Award for Design/Build – Renovation, Large Budget ($250K and above).

Finished in 2024 in Boulder, this project enhances a mountain home with terraced spaces, stone walls, boulders, gravel paths, an outdoor kitchen, firepit, water feature, and pool. Steep slopes and construction coordination were overcome with sustainable drip irrigation, drought-tolerant plants, and erosion control for seamless elegance.  

Tree of Life Landscapes for Fugue. Silver ELITE Award for Design/Build – Renovation, Midsize Budget ($150-250K).

This 2023 Westminster renovation created an English cottage garden with a lowered sandstone patio, corten planters, metal screens, a bubbling rock feature, and heirloom roses. Budget and access limits were met by off-site fabrication and pergola reuse, prioritizing sustainability and biodiversity for a private retreat.  

Urban Flow Landscape & Design for If Views Could Kill. Gold ELITE Award for Design/Build – Renovation, Large Budget ($250K and above).

Renovated in 2023 in Bow Mar, this features an outdoor kitchen, firepit, and antique French fountain with cobble pavers, flagstone, limestone, and floral plantings for old-world charm. Drainage fixes and concrete walls addressed failures, with efficient irrigation and shading for a timeless, functional space.  

Residential Design/Build – New Construction:  

Fisk Lawnscapes for Clove Hitch Court. Silver ELITE Award for Design/Build – New Construction.

Completed in 2022 in Black Forest for retirees, this blends native prairie with drought-tolerant plants, permeable paths, paver patios, and retaining walls. Winter challenges like frozen ground were managed with adaptive scheduling. It includes drainage, erosion control, and fire-resistant zones for a durable, low-maintenance retreat.  

Landcrafts LLC for Wigton. Bronze ELITE Award for Design/Build – New Construction.

This early 2025 Littleton project complements modern architecture with walkways, a viewing patio, drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, and lighting. Steep grading required boulder use and staircase redesign. Sustainable soil amendments and permeable materials create a simple, elegant space.  

Timberline Landscaping for Tiered Tranquility. Gold ELITE Award for Design/Build – New Construction.

A Family Oasis in the Foothills. Finished in 2024 in Colorado Springs, this turned a steep slope into terraces for entertainment, play, and native grasses. Integrating walls, protecting trees, and handling shortages followed GreenCO BMPs for water conservation and erosion control, fostering family outdoor living in harmony with the foothills.

Innovation Award:

Native Edge Landscapes for Organic Plant Healthcare Establishment Program. ELITE Award for Innovation.

Native Edge Landscapes’ Plant Healthcare (PHC) Establishment Program promotes healthy, self-sustaining plantings and soils with minimal chemical use. Initially tested on poor farmland soils, it redirects warranty funds to proactive organic treatments, including foliar fertilization and soil drenches with natural ingredients like molasses and seaweed extract. Warranty losses dropped from 7% to 3%, reducing costs and enhancing client satisfaction. Now a core practice, PHC emphasizes early issue detection, soil health planning, and sustainable landscape care, strengthening plant resilience and environmental performance.

Landscape Construction –  Commercial:

Fisk Lawnscapes for Aspen Meadows Park. Gold ELITE Award for Commercial Landscape Construction.

Fisk Lawnscapes’ $2 million, 13-acre Aspen Meadows Park in Colorado Springs, completed in 2024, features native landscaping, play structures, a soccer field, and sustainable irrigation. Challenges like gas line rerouting and parking redesign were solved with careful planning. Smart irrigation, drought-tolerant plants, and native grasses ensure water conservation, creating a durable, family-friendly park blending aesthetics and community functionality.

Fisk Lawnscapes for Evans Elementary School. Silver ELITE Award for Commercial Landscape Construction.

Fisk Lawnscapes revitalized Evans Elementary in Colorado Springs, completed in 2025, with walkways, curbing, irrigation, decorative rock, and artificial turf. Tight deadlines, outdated irrigation, and unmarked utilities were addressed with custom solutions like a backflow cage. ALCC Green Strategies guided xeriscaping, water-wise plants, and efficient irrigation, fostering a sustainable, safe, and engaging outdoor space for the school community.

Landscape Construction – Residential:

Changing Landscapes for Owens Residence. Gold Award for Residential Landscape Construction – Small Budget.

Changing Landscapes restored the Owens Residence in Eldorado post-2013 flood damage, completed in 2023. The project rebuilt creekside walls, added terraced gardens, patios, and safe creek access while preserving trees. Narrow access and erosion were managed with custom ramps and logistics. Smart irrigation, xeric plants, soil composting, and mulching created a resilient, naturalistic landscape reviving the property’s character.

Landcrafts LLC for Richardson. Silver ELITE Award for Residential Landscape Construction – Small Budget.

LandCrafts LLC transformed the Richardson Residence in Littleton, completed in 2024, with a sunken hot tub, modern hardscaping, fire feature, and drought-tolerant plants. Steep grades, utility coordination, and limited access were solved with custom grading and phased logistics. Low-water plants, efficient irrigation, permeable hardscapes, and LED lighting ensure a sustainable, luxurious outdoor space blending elegance and eco-conscious design.

Singing Hills Landscape for Whispering Pine. Gold ELITE Award for Residential Landscape Construction – Large Budget (tie).

Singing Hills Landscape modernized the Whispering Pine residence in Castle Rock, creating a contemporary retreat with a cantilevered roof, concrete walls, cedar fencing, and a custom fireplace. Poor drainage, structural needs, and wildlife were addressed through coordination and mockups. Xeric plants and turf elimination ensure sustainability, delivering a durable, elegant outdoor space suited for entertaining.

Summit Outdoor Living for Le Court de la Ferme Moderne. Silver ELITE Award for Residential Landscape Construction – Large Budget.

Summit Outdoor Living’s Le Court de la Ferme Moderne in Windsor, completed in 2024, blends modern and agricultural charm with a limestone patio, pergolas, pétanque court, and fire-water features. Sharp angles, steep slopes, and drainage were managed with precise planning and boulder walls. Xeriscape plantings, smart irrigation, and permeable hardscapes create a refined, sustainable outdoor living space.

Urban Flow Landscape and Design for Modern Footprints into Old World Paths. Gold ELITE Award for Residential Landscape Construction – Large Budget (tie).

Urban Flow Landscape & Design transformed a Bow Mar residence with a flagstone patio, outdoor kitchen, firepit, koi pond, and vibrant plantings. Sloping terrain was addressed with flagstone stairs. Water-wise irrigation, soil amendments, and strategic planting near the pond ensure sustainability. The result is a luxurious, nature-integrated outdoor space emphasizing mountain views, beauty, and environmental harmony.

Landscape Maintenance – Residential:

Phase One Landscapes for Murdy Estate. Gold ELITE Award for Residential Landscape Maintenance.

Phase One Landscapes has maintained the Murdy Estate in Cherry Hills Village for 13 years, covering turf care, pruning, fertilization, fountain maintenance, and snow removal. Weekly mowing, biweekly pruning, and organic fertilizers ensure sustainability. Recycled debris saves 48 cubic yards of landfill waste yearly. Humectants and hand weeding cut water and pesticide use, delivering cost-effective, eco-friendly landscape care. 

Landscape Maintenance – Commercial:

Fisk Lawnscapes for Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial. Silver ELITE Award for Commercial Landscape Maintenance.

Fisk Lawnscapes maintains the Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Springs, honoring IAFF members. Mowing, pruning, irrigation, and seasonal prep support 10,000 annual visitors. Soil amendments, Integrated Pest Management, and recycled mulch reduce chemical use. Upgraded irrigation with smart controllers boosts water efficiency, ensuring a sustainable, dignified tribute despite vandalism and heavy use through proactive care. 

Environmental Designs for Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center. Gold ELITE Award for Commercial Landscape Maintenance.

Environmental Designs maintains the 90-acre Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora, handling landscape care, irrigation, snow removal, and plant health. Native grasses, artificial turf, and Rainbird IQ irrigation save water. Integrated Pest Management and recycled materials minimize chemicals and waste. Adaptive scheduling addresses winds, wildlife, and construction, ensuring a sustainable, striking landscape for high-traffic events. 

Landscape Maintenance – Metro District or HOA:

LMI Colorado for Tollgate Crossing. Silver ELITE Award for Landscape Maintenance – Metro District or HOA.

LMI Colorado manages 1.2 million square feet at Tollgate Crossing in Aurora, providing mowing, pruning, irrigation, fertilization, and snow removal. Micronutrients, higher mowing decks, and WeatherTRAK controllers save 25–30% water. Composting diverts 40 cubic yards of waste yearly. Integrated Pest Management cuts chemical use by 30%, creating a resilient, sustainable community landscape. 

Environmental Designs for Thompson Crossing Metropolitan District No. 3. Gold ELITE Award for Landscape Maintenance – Metro District or HOA.

Environmental Designs maintains 25 acres at Thompson Crossing in Johnstown, including turf, grasslands, and ponds. Weekly reports ensure transparent service. All green waste is composted, and raw water irrigation with efficient nozzles conserves resources. Native grasslands are mowed twice yearly with minimal herbicides. Irrigation upgrades since 2021 enhance efficiency, supporting sustainable, reliable landscape care. 

Environmental Designs for Reunion Metro District. Bronze ELITE Award for Landscape Maintenance – Metro District or HOA.

Environmental Designs has maintained 300 acres at Reunion Metro District in Commerce City since 2019, covering lawn, beds, and natural areas. A 2025 electric equipment investment cuts emissions. About 1,600 cubic yards of grass waste are recycled yearly. Mowing aligns with community events, ensuring safety and sustainability through efficient irrigation and eco-friendly landscape management.

2025 MVP Award:

Tim Gibbons from Environmental Designs. MVP Award.

Environmental Designs’ Tim Gibbons exemplifies a true landscape industry MVP—an expert, mentor, and leader whose passion and knowledge elevate everyone around him, displaying exceptional mentorship by guiding colleagues with a data-driven approach to sharpen their horticultural and problem-solving skills. Beyond daily tasks, he elevates industry standards through A-L-C-C Certification Committee work, developing training manuals, and promoting sustainability education. With decades of experience, his rigorous field inspections ensure top-quality service, inspiring continuous learning and environmental stewardship.

Justin Mobley from Phase One Landscapes. MVP Award.

Phase One Landscapes’ Justin Mobley demonstrates leadership, innovation, and dedication, transforming operations since 2016. He created the Client Construction Coordinator role to bridge communication between clients, project managers, and teams for seamless execution and client service. Beyond duties, Justin mentors design assistants, contributes to operations and marketing, and drives improvements. Known for optimism and teamwork, he inspires colleagues, enhances culture, and strengthens communication, efficiency, and client satisfaction.

Plant Design – Commercial:

Environmental Designs for Cherry Creek North. Bronze ELITE Award for Commercial Plant Design.

Environmental Designs transformed Denver’s Cherry Creek North into a botanical showcase. Field-designed plantings balanced texture, color, and microclimates, blending annuals and perennials for year-round vibrancy. The design ensures durability against urban challenges like foot traffic and pests. Close client-grower collaboration created a lush, sustainable streetscape, rivaling the Denver Botanic Gardens with ever-changing horticultural artistry.

Rocky Mountain Trees and Landscaping for Elk Avenue Parklets and Patio. Gold ELITE Award for Commercial Plant Design.

Rocky Mountain Trees & Landscaping created three unique restaurant parklets in Crested Butte, reflecting each venue’s character. In-house planters and on-site refinements optimized plant placement and airflow. Combining artistry and adaptability, the project delivered cohesive, plant-rich spaces that elevate Elk Avenue’s visual and social atmosphere with vibrant, sustainable designs tailored to each restaurant’s aesthetic.

Environmental Designs for Foundry Seasonal Color. Silver ELITE Award for Commercial Plant Design.

Environmental Designs’ Foundry Seasonal Color in Loveland features vibrant displays across 26 planters and 18 hanging baskets. Four seasonal rotations, planned months ahead, ensure bold, cohesive palettes. On-site tailoring for sun exposure and aesthetics enhances the courtyard’s commercial appeal. The result is a dynamic, visitor-engaging landscape that elevates Loveland’s public space through thoughtful, high-impact plant design.

Plant Design – Residential:

Landcrafts LLC for Ami. Bronze ELITE Award for Residential Plant Design (tie).

LandCrafts LLC’s Ami Residence in Littleton blends perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees for a low-maintenance, modern landscape. CAD-planned berms, boulders, and a dry creek bed enhance flow and drainage. Expanded planting areas balance pathways with greenery. Precise plans ensured seamless construction, delivering a sustainable, visually engaging space with year-round color, texture, and architectural harmony.

Phase One Landscapes for Shou Sugi Ban Retreat. Silver ELITE Award for Residential Plant Design.

Phase One Landscapes’ Shou Sugi Ban Retreat in Denver integrates Japanese design with native ecology. Xeric, pollinator-friendly plants like manzanita and yarrow, paired with a basalt fountain and cedar fence, create serenity. Stone and concrete elements mirror the home’s materials. Efficient drip irrigation ensures sustainability, delivering a refined, ecologically balanced landscape with cultural and aesthetic harmony.

Tree of Life Landscapes for Mazurka. Bronze ELITE Award for Residential Plant Design (tie).

Tree of Life Landscapes’ Mazurka in Berthoud transformed a backyard into a biodiverse retreat. Over 40 native and adaptive species, like serviceberry and milkweed, support pollinators. CAD and 3D renderings guided precise execution, with a bubbling rock and wind-blocking shrubs added per client feedback. The result is an ecologically rich, visually harmonious garden sanctuary.

Phase One Landscapes for Wash Park Oasis. Bronze ELITE Award for Residential Plant Design (tie).

Phase One Landscapes’ Wash Park Oasis in Denver creates a tropical-mountain retreat with a swim spa, stream-like water feature, and layered plantings. Espalier vines, birches, and grasses add texture and beauty. CAD and VizTerra 3D modeling ensured precise construction and drainage. The result is an intimate, sustainable landscape balancing functionality, tranquility, and lush visual appeal.

Urban Flow Landscape and Design for Bees for Dayzzz. Gold ELITE Award for Residential Plant Design.

Urban Flow Landscape & Design’s Bees for Dayzzz in Littleton crafted a vibrant, season-long blooming garden. Client collaboration via meetings and nursery visits shaped a colorful, community-loved design. Precise drawings guided the crew, with front horseshoe and entryway plantings as focal points. The result is a joyful, sustainable garden harmonizing texture, color, and community engagement.

Sustainability – Residential Property:

Tree of Life Landscapes for Zheeg.Gold ELITE Award for Sustainability – Residential Property.

Tree of Life’s Zheeg project in Erie transformed a bluegrass lawn into a sustainable garden with native, drought-tolerant plants. Reusing materials, avoiding plastic drip systems, and using self-seeding species cut water use by 30–52% annually. No waste went to landfills, and the design supports pollinators year-round while teaching clients sustainable stewardship through ongoing after-care. 

Wild Heritage Gardens & Design for Hummingbird Haven. Silver ELITE Award for Sustainability – Residential Property.

Hummingbird Haven in Louisville replaced 4,500 sq. ft. of lawn with native, drought-tolerant plants, eliminating chemical inputs. A cobblestone swale reuses gutter water, while composting and recycling diverted 60,000 pounds of waste. Reused boulders, drip irrigation, and cedar mulch boost soil health and biodiversity, blending formal and natural aesthetics for a resilient, pollinator-friendly sanctuary. 

Sustainability – Commercial Property:

Landtech Contractors for Northern Water Phase II Expansion Completed in 2024 in Berthoud: Silver ELITE Award for Sustainability – Commercial Property.

This project uses drought-tolerant, native plantings and raw water irrigation to cut potable water use. The “Oxbow Area” mimics natural river landscapes, enhancing biodiversity. Soil preservation, compost, and durable materials minimize waste and maintenance, blending ecological function with aesthetics to showcase Northern Water’s commitment to resource conservation. 

Environmental Designs for Shadow Grass HOA. Bronze ELITE Award for Sustainability – Commercial Property.

Since 2021 in Longmont, Environmental Designs implemented organic fertilization, smart irrigation with Rain Bird IQ4, and integrated pest management for Shadow Grass HOA. All green waste is recycled into soil amendments, eliminating landfill use. Improved plant health, zero tree loss, and lower maintenance costs demonstrate sustainable community landscaping with a focus on ecological stewardship and resource efficiency. 

Fisk Lawnscapes for Library 21C Native Conversion In Colorado Springs. Gold ELITE Award for Sustainability – Commercial Property.

Fisk Lawnscapes converted over an acre of Kentucky Bluegrass at Library 21C into native, low-water grasses. The $150,000 project cut irrigation by 66%, saving 900,000 gallons annually, and reduced fertilizer and chemical use by 75% and 67%, respectively. Mowing dropped from 25 to 4 times per season, enhancing biodiversity and creating a water-wise, cost-effective public model.

Each year, ALCC recognizes special industry members who go beyond ‘normal’ volunteer service, and this year, 5 individuals were honored with Volunteer Service Awards:

The Bob Cannon Outstanding Achievement Award honors individuals for their longtime service, commitment, loyalty, dedication and contribution to the landscape industry and ALCC:

Phil Steinhauer, Designscapes Colorado.

Phil Steinhauer, originally from California, studied art at the University of Wisconsin River Falls before pursuing landscape design at Colorado State University, drawn by his ancestral ties to the state. After gaining experience in Connecticut, he returned to Colorado, founding Designscapes Colorado in 1992. His career highlights include building lasting relationships, creating the “STEP UP” Program for H2B workers, and being featured in The New York Times. Dedicated to industry service, he’s worked with ALCC and CSU on initiatives supporting sustainability and workforce development, including a stint as ALCC board president. His devotion to the CSU  Landscape Design and Contracting Program resulted in the Philip E. Steinhauer Landscape Design and Contracting Studio was completed in 2022. 

The John Garvey Person of the Year Award honors an individual who has made significant contributions to ALCC and the industry over the past year:

Matt Akabane from Hughes Landscaping. 

Matt Akabane, originally from Danville, California. A graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Matt grew up in his family’s business, Tassajara Nursery, founded in 1979. Starting at just eight years old, he learned every aspect of the trade—from watering plants and managing deliveries to landscape design. He later earned his C-27 Landscape License in California, and started a business, Tassajara Landscape, featured on HGTV’s Landscape Smart. Matt moved to Colorado 3 years ago and found his professional home at Hughes Landscaping in Parker. He enjoys presenting local garden segments on Channel 7 and 9. Matt’s greatest satisfaction comes from helping clients realize their landscaping visions, whether small gardens or large estates. Deeply connected to the industry, he values his ALCC membership as a way to give back and support its growth. 

The ALCC Woman of the Year Award serves to spotlight individuals who inspire their peers and serve as role models for women across the industry.

Ellen Becker, Floral Culture LLC. Ellen Becker, a Denver native, spent a decade living abroad in Mexico, Spain, China, Germany, and later Miami, before returning home in 2015. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish, is fluent in German, and speaks basic Mandarin Chinese. Her diverse career has included teaching English in Germany, serving as Executive Director of the German American Business Chamber in Miami, and working for Denver City Council. Gardening, which began as a high school summer job, has remained her lifelong passion and professional calling as the owner of Floral Culture LLC. Ellen takes pride in building a loyal, long-term client base that allows her to grow creatively and professionally. Drawn to the industry through early mentorship and a love of flower planters, she continues to find fulfillment in her work. 

The Outlook Award for Emerging Leaders represents “up and comers” in the landscape industry and ALCC.

Donovan Ryan, Environmental Designs. Donovan Ryan, a Colorado native from Broomfield, has built his entire career in the landscaping industry. After earning degrees in Business Management and Environmental Horticulture from Colorado State University, he began working on construction installation crews, contributing to award-winning floral displays. His passion and skill led him through roles in commercial maintenance, irrigation technology, and account management, ultimately guiding him to his current position in business development at Environmental Designs. Donovan’s greatest professional achievements come from his commitment to continuous learning and the satisfaction of seeing projects come to life. Inspired by family connections and a lifelong love for landscaping, he remains dedicated to industry service and growth. 

The Stanley Brown Service Award is presented to an individual associate or affiliate member who has helped make the industry more professional, or promoted professionalism to the public and other industry stakeholders.

Chris Tragakes, Colorado State University. Chris Tragakes, originally from Westbrook, Connecticut, has lived in Colorado for the past decade and now resides in Eaton with his family. He holds a BS in Environmental Horticulture and an MS in Horticulture from Colorado State University, where he now serves as the Landscape Design and Contracting Program Coordinator. Formerly a Maintenance Division Manager in Fairfield County, CT, Chris has managed projects worldwide from Colorado to Guam. Passionate about giving back, he’s active in industry and university committees. He previously served as an intern with ALCC and received an ALCC scholarship in 2022. He values connecting with others in the landscape industry and enjoys outdoor adventures with his wife, especially fishing—his favorite pastime.

For more information about the 2025 ELITE Awards and this year’s winners, visit alcc.com/2025-elite-awards.

ABOUT ALCC

Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (ALCC) is the premier professional organization for Colorado’s landscape companies. For more than 55 years, ALCC has guided landscape professionals to address Colorado’s unique climate and to promote sustainable landscapes. ALCC promotes the responsible use of water and other natural resources and provides educational and industry certification opportunities to Colorado’s landscape professionals. More information at www.alcc.com.