Living Earth Landscapes was started in 1997 by Keith Hamm.  Keith has a wealth of knowledge and experience in working in our unique northcoast region. After studying Forestry and Biology at Humboldt State University, Keith planted close to 1 million trees for reforestation efforts, worked alongside a professional arborist, built water systems for rural property owners, and installed a variety of landscapes and vegetable gardens. Keith also worked in the appropriate technology field before pursuing a contractor's license in landscaping. To further his expertise in landscape contracting, Keith gained additional perspective spending a season working as Senior Project Manager for one of the largest design/build companies in the state. There he, along with 4 other managers, was responsible for 180 employees, 50 trucks, a territory that covered all of California, and a budget of $20 million. In six months Keith was responsible for coordinating landscaping activities for over 400 houses, 2 sets of model homes, a recreation center, police station, a UC campus, several city streetscapes and a planned community. Working far from Humboldt was never a long-term option to Keith. With the intense, fast-paced, corporate experience gained, he was able to apply the best parts to Living Earth Landscapes, creating a higher quality company that our region deserves.
    Most recently, Keith has received extended training in the installation of Aquascapes Systems and EliteCrete Decorative Concrete Overlay.   Living Earth Landscapes currently runs small crews in order to keep a high level of quality, but we have access to unlimited qualified labor, so no job is too big or too small. We maintain strong relationships with many local suppliers as well as out of the area vendors in order to provide our customers with a large selection of high quality products with great pricing.

Some 2009 Projects:

     Living Earth Landscapes has had a good year despite the economy. With a solid history and professional convenience, we have kept busy with a variety of projects. Here are some highlights.

      The year started off with rebuilding a 10 year old pond that just wasn't done right. That project led to a fire pit gathering area and an 800 sq. ft. deck made with straight grain salvaged redwood. Also in the winter was the installation of landscape and fence for the new veterinary clinic on Indianola Rd.

      By spring we were asked to rebuild the waterfall at the Blue Lake Casino as a main water pipe had burst underneath and completely destroyed the feature. The project was completed in one week including a full clean-out (several tons of sediment was found it's way into the pond when the main broke) and assessment of the pond.

     By the end of summer we had poured numerous concrete patios and walkways, built two more decks (one with sustainable Brazilian Ipe wood), several fences, more ponds, (one that is over 15,000 gallons with 32 tons of boulders that we stocked with 100 koi), and planted thousands of trees and plants.

     Over winter, we finished the landscape at the new Hampton Inn in Valley West (just a mile from our nursery). We originally planned for a large water feature at the entrance but unfortunately all of the utilities were moved the the only spot we could have used.

     Once again we thank everyone who used our services and look forward to another great year.

Keith Hamm, Owner and Director of Operations, was born on Long Island, NY, has lived in 5 states and has been a resident of Humboldt since 1990 after graduation from Point Loma High in Ocean Beach, Ca. Currently, Keith resides in McKinleyville with his wife of 7 years and two children, 6 and 3 years of age.

Jesse Whirl, Crew Leader, came to us in early 2009 and proved a dependable addition to our team. Well-educated and a fast learner, Jesse applies his skills and quick thinking to his work. His great disposition adds to his professional demeanor and quality performance.

Fawn Scheer, Office and Nursery Manager, joined the team soon after opening our retail site. Fawn has quickly met and exceeded our expectations. With a diverse background, high level of education, and love of plants, she has been able to adapt to and manage our fast paced environment. Fawn is here to provide the high level of customer satisfaction that only comes from a caring and knowledgeable staff. 

Leandra Lopez, Nursery Assistant,  Friendly, Enthusiastic and Helpful are just a few of the great qualities Leandra brings to our team. Leandra is focusing her studies at HSU on natural resources and aspires to be a landscape designer. She is quickly proving to be a welcome asset to the nursery.

Open Positions

We are currently accepting applications for the following positions:

Construction Foreman (Min. 5 yr exp. leading projects, hands on concrete, carpentry,                           irrigation)

Landscape Foreman (Min. 5 yr. exp. leading projects, hands on irrigation, horticulture                    knowledge, water features)

Seasonal Nursery Assistant ( great customer service skills, horticulture knowledge )

Living Earth Landscapes is licensed in California and can provide full insurance certificates.