Synthetic Turf Northwest, an artificial grass supplier based in Woodinville, Wash., is expanding its reach with the grand opening of an 11,000-square-foot warehouse, in Fife, Wash.
This new location marks a pivotal moment for the Woodinville-based company, doubling down on its mission to deliver regionally engineered, eco-conscious landscaping solutions to Washington’s contractors, homeowners, municipalities and developers.
“With two locations, we can offer faster product turnarounds, cut-to-order turf and installation materials on demand. It also provides us with space to train professionals on-site and offer more localized service and consulting to contractors, developers and homeowners throughout the region. We’re bringing smarter, more sustainable outdoor solutions closer to where people live and work,” said Synthetic Turf Northwest owner Michael Vandaveer.
The expansion also supports the company’s installation business and brings valuable logistical advantages, according to the company. By giving crews a centrally located supply hub and providing walk-in customers with expert consulting, Synthetic Turf Northwest is aiming to streamline the turf buying process from start to finish for its customers.
From lush front lawns and backyard pet runs to high-traffic school playgrounds, rooftop patios, city dog parks, golf greens and full-scale commercial landscapes, the company has been servicing residential and commercial businesses since 1996. All Synthetic Turf Northwest’s unitary systems are ASTM F1292 certified for impact safety, meeting Head Injury Criterion (HIC) standards. The company also partners with schools and regulatory agencies to provide expert guidance on safety best practices, ensuring every project is compliant and built to last, according to Synthetic Turf.
“We’re not just changing yards, we’re helping build greener, more livable communities,” Vandaveer said.
Josh Duhamel and Bobcat donate to the Los Angeles Fire Department
Award-winning actor and Hollywood director Josh Duhamel recently partnered with Bobcat Company for a surprise visit to Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Station 88 to deliver a powerful gift: a brand-new Bobcat UV34XL utility vehicle.
The donation was part of Bobcat’s “Work Worth Doing” campaign — a nationwide initiative celebrating the work of everyday people who are making a difference. Duhamel, a Bobcat ambassador, personally handed over the keys to the UTV in recognition of the LAFD’s first, full-time, paid wildland hand crew, who help mitigate and control wildfires and will use the UTV on the frontlines of future fires.
“I think this is some of the most honorable work that you can do. It takes a special kind of person to sign up as a firefighter, especially in a place like Los Angeles where wildfires run rampant,” said Duhamel. “We believe, myself and Bobcat, that the firefighters deserve the best tools out there, and that’s why we wanted to donate this machine. I think that anytime you can support those who are protecting others is definitely work worth doing.”
Bobcat is also supporting the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation by donating a portion of proceeds from the sale of its limited-edition hat Duhamel is seen wearing during his recent visit to the LAFD.
“We are grateful for Bobcat and Josh’s commitment to advancing our efforts with the generous donation of a Bobcat UTV,” said Adam VanGerpen, captain and public information officer, Los Angeles City Fire Department. “This will enhance our hand crew’s efficiency in mitigating and fighting wildfires, enabling us to achieve so much more in our mission to keep the community safe.”
Bobcat kicked off its “Work Worth Doing” initiative in May by teaming up with entrepreneur and Magnolia co-founder Chip Gaines to surprise a deserving neighbor and a United States veteran, Jason Shields, with a Bobcat T595 compact track loader. Shields is the founder of Hoof Haven Sanctuary, a non-profit that rescues endangered or injured horses, rehabilitates them and provides them with a forever home.
Volvo to invest roughly $300 million to expand worldwide production
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is making a significant investment to expand production worldwide, according to the company. For crawler excavators, three main sites will see approximately $261 million invested to expand crawler excavator production to meet growing customer demands, mitigate supply chain risks and reduce reliance on long-distance logistics. These sites include Shippensburg, Pa., Changwon, South Korea and a location in Sweden.
In Shippensburg, Volvo CE will not only add crawler excavator production but also expand wheel loader production to include large wheel loaders. Currently, soil and asphalt compactors and mid-size wheel loaders are manufactured at the Shippensburg factory.
Updates will be made to the existing space within the factory to install assembly lines, integrate more automation technologies into the manufacturing process and train employees, with the goal to be production-ready in the first half of 2026.
Investment aims to bolster global machine availability
In a rapidly evolving market, strategically enhancing production capacity and flexibility will allow the OEM to meet current and future customer demands more effectively, according to Melker Jernberg, head of Volvo CE.
“We must respond to growing demand, and we’re excited to expand our facilities to serve our customers better,” said Jernberg. “This investment underscores our commitment to quality and innovation, allowing us to deliver even greater value.”
By expanding production capabilities in key markets, Volvo CE will reduce dependency on any single site and become less reliant on long-distance logistics. Supply chain risks will also be mitigated by expanding domestic supplier bases, allowing the OEM to more nimbly manage any economic or regulatory challenges.
Jernberg says that fostering collaboration with local suppliers and customers will better position the company for sustained growth and innovation without compromising the standards that Volvo CE equipment is known for.
North America to see reduced lead times and improved machine supply
“Bringing excavator production to North America and growing the range of wheel loader models built here has always been part of our long-term industrial plan, so it’s exciting to finally share this news with our employees, dealers and customers,” said Scott Young, head of region North America. “This increase in production capacity means that over 50 percent of our North American machine supply can be built here in Shippensburg, resulting in shorter lead times while also creating opportunities for supplier growth.”
Volvo CE acquired the Shippensburg site in 2007 from Ingersoll Rand and relocated its regional headquarters there in 2012. On top of recent investments, Volvo CE will invest approximately $40 million locally over the next five years.
National Garden Bureau surpasses 1 million views on YouTube
The National Garden Bureau (NGB), a 105-year-old nonprofit ambassador dedicated to the horticulture industry, officially surpassed 1 million views on its YouTube channel in May, a figure that has since soared to more than 1.2 million views and continues to climb. This reach means new exposure for the valuable content contributed by members, according to the nonprofit.
Furthermore, NGB’s subscriber count recently hit 10,000 subscribers. These numbers have been achieved through 400 videos (and counting), predominantly featuring the expertise of NGB members. The content spans a variety of popular formats, including:
- The successful “Ask the Experts” webinars
- Quick, informative tips directly from members
- Engaging “Authors Talk Gardening” book events, often in collaboration with GardenComm members
These milestones are a direct reflection of the engaging content that NGB’s members provide, and they highlight the value NGB brings in amplifying an inspiring gardening message and products to a global gardening community, according to the nonprofit. NGB stated it is excited to continue leveraging this platform to drive awareness and interest in the horticulture industry.
Milwaukee Tool expands jobsite workwear portfolio
Milwaukee Tool recently expanded its workwear portfolio with new editions to its Freeflex, Gridiron and Workskin collections, Milwaukee introduced new gear designed to withstand jobsite demands while ensuring flexibility and durability, according to the company, and the workwear was developed with feedback from users across the trades and through continuous research, aiming to provide comfort on the jobsite.
Freeflex
Designed for flexibility and comfort, the Freeflex Lightweight Insulated Vest provides unrestricted movement with shoulder and side body mobility panels. Engineered with wind- and water-resistant fabric, this three-season solution offers increased protection against the elements, according to the company. The relaxed fit with a drop-tail hem provides extra coverage, while zippered hand pockets add secure storage. A brushed fleece-lined collar and pockets enhance warmth, making the vest jobsite ready; available in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Engineered for adaptability, the women’s Freeflex Hybrid Tee is designed with a natural stretch fabric and forward shoulder seams to enhance mobility. The breathable cotton/poly blend wicks moisture to keep users comfortable while working, without sacrificing durability, according to the company.
Gridiron
The women’s Gridiron Long Sleeve Pocket Tee, crafted from a 6 oz cotton/poly blend for reliable protection, aims to provide comfort and durability. This long sleeve tee has a broken-in feel to ensure lasting softness, making it an option for all-day wear on the jobsite. The shirt also comes with anti-odor and moisture-wicking technology.
Workskin
Optimized for cold conditions, the Workskin Low-Profile Beanie wicks away sweat while providing enhanced warmth. The 360-degree stretch design ensures a snug, comfortable fit, according to the company, with a low-profile style and durable exterior.
Built for cold environments, the Workskin Balaclava delivers warmth, breathability and a secure fit with its sweat-wicking brushed fleece interior, according to the company. The 360-degree stretch fabric allows for a secure, adaptable fit, while the breathable mouth and nose panel enhances airflow. It was designed with four versatile ways to wear, aiming for comfort and protection in extreme environments.
