Trustee Letter: April 2026

Spring is here!

Welcome, and thank you for reading the MDASLA Newsletter. By way of introduction, my name is Brian Reetz, a former MDASLA President (circa 2004), and I’m honored to now serve as your newly appointed Trustee.

I’m pleased to share my first update on recent national efforts by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and to stay connected with the important work happening across our profession. ASLA continues to demonstrate leadership at the intersection of design, policy, and public stewardship—advancing initiatives that shape our built and natural environments in meaningful ways. From advocacy to strategic partnerships, these efforts reinforce the critical role landscape architects play in addressing today’s most complex civic and environmental challenges. The following highlights provide insight into key developments at the national level and their relevance to our work locally and regionally.

In this new role, and with the inside perspective it provides, I’m thoroughly impressed with ASLA National’s organization and its deep understanding of the challenges we face as practitioners. I truly believe they are working to protect and advance our profession’s best interests. Much of this work happens behind the scenes—often in the trenches—and it’s important to recognize the value it brings to both our profession and the communities we serve. Our licensure and the accreditation of landscape architecture programs are continually under pressure, and ASLA National is actively engaged in safeguarding these foundations while preparing us to respond effectively when challenges arise.

ASLA National is currently working to update and protect landscape architecture practice laws in multiple states, addressing sunsetting provisions and advancing legislation in Illinois, Alaska, Maryland, and beyond. These efforts are essential to maintaining licensure and ensuring the continued recognition of our profession.

At the local level, our Maryland Chapter remains highly engaged, maintaining a strong connection with our legislative liaison, Jack Neil, who keeps the Government Affairs Committee informed and responsive to issues impacting the profession across the state.

ASLA is also advocating for continued bike and pedestrian funding within the federal Transportation Bill. Member participation is critical—through the iAdvocate platform, you can directly support this effort. At the time of writing, only about 300 members Nationally have taken action, and without stronger participation, we risk losing key funding opportunities such as the TIGER grant program. I encourage you to engage—these collective efforts make a real difference in advancing our work and shaping the future of landscape architecture.

Here are a few additional ways that National and the chapter are here to serve you:

Protecting Cultural Landscapes

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) has joined a coalition of leading architectural and cultural heritage organizations in a federal lawsuit to ensure that any significant changes to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts campus follow established federal law and review processes, including the National Historic Preservation Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. This action addresses the Kennedy Center Board’s advance of alterations without required agency approvals, emphasizing transparency, public engagement, and accountability for nationally significant public spaces. ASLA’s participation highlights the critical role of landscape architects in shaping and protecting cultural landscapes, reinforcing the importance of lawful, multi-agency review, and ensuring community voice before irreversible changes occur. This effort is strictly focused on process and legal compliance—not design preference—and underscores ASLA’s mission to safeguard the integrity, stewardship, and public accessibility of America’s civic landscapes. Check out this link from ASLA National for more detail.

Launch of National ASLA’s New Website

ASLA recently launched newly updated websites for www.ASLA.org and www.LandscapeArchitectureMagazine.org, marking a significant step forward in the organization’s digital presence. This multi-year effort delivers a more streamlined, user-friendly platform that consolidates content, improves access to resources and advocacy tools, and creates clearer pathways for members to engage with the profession. While the rollout will continue to be refined into the first and second quarters of 2026, the new sites establish a strong, flexible foundation that better supports ASLA’s mission and enhances how members and the public connect with landscape architecture.

Federal & State Legislative Priorities Survey

ASLA will be launching the Federal & State Legislative Priorities Survey, an important tool used to help shape the organization’s advocacy agenda for the upcoming legislative cycle. This survey ensures that ASLA’s priorities are a true reflection of the needs and perspectives of its members. In the most recent survey, key focus areas included biodiversity, climate resiliency, water management, and licensure—issues that continue to define the role of landscape architects in addressing today’s environmental and regulatory challenges. Members are encouraged to participate and make their voices heard as we collectively guide the direction of our profession.

World Landscape Architecture Month

It’s that time of year—April is World Landscape Architecture Month! Join us in celebrating our profession and the vital role landscape architects play in shaping resilient, beautiful, and sustainable communities. Keep an eye out for opportunities from ASLA National and our Maryland chapter. Spread the news and show off your projects.

Maryland ASLA Awards Gala

While not directly tied to ASLA National, this annual event is a highlight for our Maryland chapter. In my years as a member, I’ve always found the gala to be a spectacular celebration of design excellence and community. This year, our planning team--led by Jack Sullivan and Zach Brown--are carrying forward the legacy established by Lydia Kimball and Kevin Gaughan (past event organizers), promising another exceptional evening, this time in Annapolis. Don’t miss it—get your tickets and be part of this must-attend event!

These highlights represent just a fraction of the work ASLA National does on our behalf. Staying current with your membership ensures both our local and national chapters are properly supported, enabling them to continue advancing the profession and protecting our shared interests.

Brian