Business Details
Certified Landscape Design Professionals
The Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD) is a community of dedicated professionals committed to advancing the landscape design industry. Our members combine design education, advanced horticultural knowledge, and hands-on experience to create functional, sustainable outdoor spaces that meet client needs. Through rigorous certification programs, we ensure designers meet established standards of excellence while promoting environmental stewardship and innovation. APLD provides ongoing educational opportunities, networking platforms, and advocacy initiatives to support professional growth.Our Certified Professional Landscape Designer (CPLD) program offers third-party validation of expertise, giving clients confidence in our members' qualifications. With chapters across the United States and international representation, we foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among landscape design professionals. Our day-to-day operations are managed from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with a focus on maintaining high professional standards and promoting industry best practices.
Services
Landscape Design Certification
Professional Networking
Continuing Education Units
Industry Advocacy
Job Board Access
Highlights and features
- We offer a rigorous Certified Professional Landscape Designer (CPLD) program validating industry expertise
- Our members receive ongoing educational resources and professional development opportunities
- We maintain high standards of practice and ethical conduct across all membership levels
- Our network includes professionals in all 50 states and international locations
- We provide access to industry-specific resources including job boards and design award programs
Services
Landscape Design Certification
Our Certified Professional Landscape Designer (CPLD) program validates expertise through rigorous peer review. This credential demonstrates commitment to industry standards and best practices. Professionals with three+ years experience can earn this prestigious designation.
Professional Networking
Connect with landscape design professionals through regional chapters and virtual platforms. Our network spans all 50 states and includes international members. Events facilitate knowledge sharing and business development opportunities.
Continuing Education Units
Access educational resources including conferences, webinars, and workshops. Our programs offer CEUs for certification maintenance. Topics cover sustainable practices, design innovations, and industry trends.
Industry Advocacy
Promote landscape design profession through policy initiatives and public education. We advocate for sustainable practices and professional standards. Members receive resources to support local advocacy efforts.
Job Board Access
Utilize our online job board connecting employers with qualified landscape design professionals. Members post and search job opportunities across various experience levels and geographic locations.
People
Katie Weber
President
Certified landscape designer with extensive experience in sustainable design solutions. Leads APLD's strategic initiatives while maintaining active design practice in Seattle, Washington.
Lisa Nunamaker
President-Elect
Licensed landscape architect specializing in creative garden solutions. Brings expertise in professional development and industry leadership to APLD's executive committee.
Maryanne Quincy
Treasurer
Award-winning landscape designer with focus on ecological design principles. Manages financial operations while maintaining active membership in multiple professional organizations.
Bill Ripley
Immediate Past President
Experienced design studio owner with emphasis on client-centered solutions. Provides continuity through leadership transition while maintaining active involvement in industry initiatives.
Francesca Corra
Director
Creative landscape designer operating successful independent practice. Contributes practical insights from small business perspective while mentoring emerging professionals.
Questions
What is the CPLD certification?
CPLD (Certified Professional Landscape Designer) is our industry-recognized credential validating expertise through peer-reviewed portfolio assessment and professional standards adherence.
How do I find a certified designer?
Use our online directory to search for CPLD-certified professionals by location, specialty, or experience level across the United States and internationally.
What membership benefits are available?
Members receive CEU opportunities, networking platforms, job board access, advocacy resources, and professional recognition through our certification program.
Are there educational resources available?
We offer conferences, webinars, workshops, and online courses covering sustainable practices, design innovations, and business development strategies for landscape professionals.
How does APLD support sustainability?
We promote environmentally responsible design through educational resources, advocacy initiatives, and our Healthy Pots, Healthy Planet sustainability program.
Can international professionals join?
Yes, we welcome international members and provide virtual chapter participation for those without geographic chapters in their region.
