On a Strong, Steady Course

Utah landscaper’s dependable pace serves his business and community

Steve Hansen

Hansen’s Landscape Services

St. George, Utah

Steve Hansen, owner of Hansen’s Landscape Services in St. George, Utah, started his company in 1983 in southern California and had a vision to provide great service to quality customers and feed his love for the landscape industry.

More than10 years ago, Hansen sold the operation and moved to Utah, with his wife Darci and their children. Darci grew up near an Indian reservation in the Southwest, and she longed to have a similar small-town atmosphere for their family.

Above and right: Xeriscaping, including drought-tolerant plantings and rock/gravel, is used in many of the housing developments and golf course communities Hansen’s Landscape Services maintains.

Since those first years in business, Hansen’s customer base has evolved from small and mid-level projects to caring for large commercial projects and major residential homeowner associations, developments and government and major corporation contracts.

“Our philosophy is, and always has been, slow and steady growth. This allows us to truly accentuate quality, uncompromising customer service standards,” Hansen says.

Hansen now runs three full-time, year-round divisions, including commercial grounds maintenance, commercial/residential landscape installation and fertilization/pest control.

Conservatism is key

The recent economic downturn left many business owners unprepared for the worst. Hansen says he built his company conservatively, creating a relatively debt-free business. “We pay off loans within a quarter of the allotted time,” he explains. “We pay cash for most of our equipment, and we manage our money extremely conservatively.”

This homeowner requested a dramatic water feature to accent the stunning red rock behind their home. It also serves as something special for the grandchildren to enjoy when they visit.

While admitting he didn’t “get rich quick,” Hansen has maintained his customer accounts and employees during a challenging time. “I am proud to say we have yet to lay off a single one of our 43 employees during this recession. I am humbled and grateful for that.”