NATIONAL CONGRESS OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS KICKS OFF IN WINNIPEG
Posted in: News Item
Date Posted: 2024-05-30
Organization Name: Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA)
Location: Winnipeg, MB
Celebrating Milestones and Envisioning the Future of Landscape Architecture in Canada
Winnipeg, May 30, 2024 – The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) and the
Manitoba Association of Landscape Architects (MALA) announced the 2024 CSLA-MALA
Congress in Winnipeg from May 30 to June 1, 2024, where 250 landscape architects, students,
academics, and allied professionals will celebrate the 90th anniversary of CSLA and the 50th
anniversary of MALA.
Landscape architects shape the world around us through analysis, planning, design, and
management of the natural and built environment. Their work involves conceptual and detailed
design of environments ranging from streetscapes to parks and playgrounds, created wetlands
and restored river systems, transit solutions and tourism strategies, private backyards to
planning new suburbs and even cities.
A notable focus of this year’s Congress is MALA’s ongoing effort to seek licensure legislation for
landscape architects in Manitoba. A new act would underscore the profession’s growth and
increasing recognition as a vital contributor to Manitoba’s economy, including through
Indigenous land-use planning and environmental stewardship.
“The time is right for all provinces to join BC, Alberta, and Ontario in establishing a Landscape
Architects Act,” said Bob Somers, outgoing President of CSLA. “We are advocating for changes
to protect consumers, improve labour mobility, and give landscape architects better economic
opportunities.”
“Manitoba would be the fourth province in Canada to implement legislation recognizing a
professional governing body for landscape architects following Ontario, British Columbia and
Alberta,” remarked Chuck Davidson, CEO of the Manitoba Chamber of Commerce. “This
legislation would help eliminate disadvantages that landscape architects in Manitoba face
including barriers related to international trade agreements and we support MALA in the pursuit
of this important initiative for their industry.”
The Congress theme, “Origins | Evolution | Revolution,” invites participants to explore the
development of landscape architecture, its current innovations, and future potential. Honourable
Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will join the conference on behalf
of the provincial government, and keynote speakers will be Niigaan Sinclair and Rasmus Astrup.
Honourable Murray Sinclair and Niigaan Sinclair will both be presented with honourary
membership in the CSLA.
Sessions will cover a range of topics, from the integration of new technologies to the critical role
of community engagement and the promotion of biodiversity, and the program will also feature
tours showcasing Winnipeg and Manitoba’s landscape architectural landmarks, such as the
Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail, The Leaf, and True North Square.
Finally, the CSLA’s 90th Anniversary and Awards Gala will celebrate the community’s
achievements, with the Community Service Award being presented to the Winnipeg Architecture
Foundation.
“As we mark these significant milestones, we’re not just celebrating our past achievements but
also setting our sights on how our profession can address the pressing challenges of our time,
including climate change, social inequality, and the imperative of Truth and Reconciliation.”
concluded Marcella Karsin, President of MALA.
About CSLA and MALA
The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) is a national organization dedicated to
advancing the art, science, and practice of landscape architecture. Founded in 1934, the CSLA
serves as a voice for the profession across Canada and beyond.
The Manitoba Association of Landscape Architects (MALA) represents the landscape
architecture profession in Manitoba. Established in 1974, MALA advocates for the professional
recognition and advancement of landscape architects in the province.
For more information, please contact info@chadwickconsulting.ca.