James Day
OWNER, PRESIDENT, CEO
james@solidgroundlandscape.com
James brings over 35 years of experience in landscape installation and maintenance to Solid Ground Landscape. He’s a Certified Master Gardener and Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor, and holds a BA in Environmental Design from the University of Colorado at Boulder. James joined Solid Ground in 2006 as co-owner and project manager, with a focus on providing premium customer service and quality control. He took full ownership of the company in 2024. By coordinating seamlessly with clients, architects, suppliers, and staff, James helps ensure not only a beautiful finished product, but an enjoyable working process as well.
Seth Barnard
FOUNDER
Seth Barnard started his career in landscape maintenance before he could even drive. He began by pushing his lawnmower down the street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and continued in the landscape profession as he worked his way through college. Seth graduated from Lewis and Clark in 1999 and moved to Ashland, Oregon shortly after that.
Upon moving to Ashland, Seth started a business with installation only services. He continued to grow this company for five years before selling his interest to a business partner. Solid Ground was born in the Fall of 2003 with the intention to concentrate on premium customer service while refocusing on the quality of landscape products and services. The process, the client experience and the quality of product are all key aspects of every project at Solid Ground Landscape, Inc.
Travis Gilkey
PROJECT COORDINATOR
With over 30 years of experience in sales and customer relations, Travis brings a personal touch and a deep understanding of client needs to every landscape project he manages. As a Project Coordinator at Solid Ground Landscape, he combines his passion for people with a sharp eye for detail, ensuring each project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Travis thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys the challenge of juggling multiple projects while keeping timelines on track and quality top-notch. He takes pride in building strong relationships—with both clients and his team—and believes that clear communication and collaboration are the keys to success.
Known for his proactive mindset and can-do attitude, Travis is always looking for ways to improve processes, support his coworkers, and create great outcomes for every client. For him, it’s not just about completing a project—it’s about delivering an experience people can feel proud of.
Peter Gustafson
PROJECT MANAGER
CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN
With over 30 years of hands-on experience in the custom residential landscape design and construction industry, Pete is a seasoned professional who has been an integral part of the Solid Ground team since 2009. He started his journey with the company as Client Services Manager, where he honed his skills in understanding and meeting client needs. With his exceptional dedication and attention to detail, Pete swiftly transitioned into the roles of Construction Foreman and Project Manager.
Throughout his career at Solid Ground, Pete has consistently showcased his remarkable ability to oversee and manage construction projects with meticulous precision. His completed jobs are a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his keen eye for detail. Pete's exceptional attention to detail ensures that every aspect of a project is executed flawlessly, resulting in a high level of client satisfaction and unparalleled project outcomes.
His depth of experience enables him to navigate complex projects seamlessly while prioritizing the needs and expectations of clients. His dedication, professionalism, and ability to inspire and motivate his team have been instrumental in driving the company's success. With his strong leadership skills, unwavering commitment and a proven track record of delivering outstanding results, Pete is an invaluable member of the Solid Ground team.
Eduardo Hernandez
Construction Foreman
One of the company’s earliest employees, Eddie joined Solid Ground in 2007, shortly after moving to Oregon from Indiana where he had spent years in the home framing and construction industry.
He immediately demonstrated his natural affinity for boulder work and water features, both of which he loves to build as part of the total landscape. As one of Solid Ground’s construction foremen, his expertise is put to use on virtually all of the major projects involving these features. His passion is for building landscapes people love to look at and call home. He enjoys spending his free time with his wife and children.
Matthew Dedrick
Project Manager
Matt joined Solid Ground in March 2012, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for delivering exceptional results. With his strong work ethic and expertise, Matt quickly rose through the ranks, starting as a Construction Foreman and steadily progressing to his current role as a Project Manager for the construction crews. In this role, Matt is responsible for coordinating and overseeing multiple construction crews, ensuring that all projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the client's satisfaction. He collaborates closely with clients, architects, subcontractors and engineers to ensure seamless project execution and maintains a strong focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.
Throughout his tenure with Solid Ground, Matt has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence and continues to contribute to the growth and reputation of Solid Ground as a trusted construction partner.
Jesse Kropf
CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN
Jesse Kropf joined Solid Ground in 2018 as a dedicated construction crew member, bringing his passion and expertise to the team. Over the course of five years, Jesse's skills and commitment propelled him into the role of a Construction Foreman. His expertise lies in landscape installation, with a particular focus on rock work, including flagstone, boulder work, and rock walls.
From the moment Jesse joined the company, his talent and proficiency in all aspects of landscape installation quickly became apparent. Whether it's the precise placement of flagstone, the artful arrangement of boulders, or the construction of sturdy and visually appealing rock walls, Jesse's craftsmanship shines through in every project he undertakes.
As a Construction Foreman, he guides and coordinates the construction crew, ensuring that projects are executed seamlessly. Jesse's ability to communicate and collaborate with his team members fosters a positive and productive work environment, resulting in the successful completion of projects and delighted clients. His proficiency in landscape installation, particularly in the realm of rock work, sets him apart as a skilled professional who consistently delivers outstanding results.
Wyatt Taboada
Client Services Manager
Maintenance Department
With over 11 years of hands-on experience in the landscape industry, Wyatt has built a career rooted in a lifelong passion for nature and outdoor design. His diverse background includes work in intricate bonsai gardens, managing private estates, constructing retaining walls, and maintaining high-traffic areas like the Medford Rogues baseball field.
Wyatt’s approach combines technical skill with a deep commitment to client satisfaction. Now in a customer relations role, he brings that same dedication to every interaction ensuring each landscape thrives while fostering lasting client relationships built on trust, communication, and shared values.
Outside of work, Wyatt enjoys exploring the outdoors with his wife and daughter, sharing his love for plants and thoughtful landscape design. His goal is to help clients feel proud of their outdoor spaces while ensuring they remain vibrant, healthy, and enduringly beautiful.
Gloria Mickey
NURSERY MANAGER
Gloria Mickey brings enthusiastic energy to Solid Ground. Gloria has a lifelong love of gardens and working with plants; be it foraging, farming, or admiring any garden big or small. She has lived and gardened in Southern Oregon for over 25 years. Gloria has a background in native plant identification, urban gardening, small market farming, and nursery work gained through over 20 years of work and play in horticulture and a BS in Environmental Studies from SOU in 2011. Gloria views each landscape as an opportunity to relate to nature and find healing and wonder.
Katie Latvala
Office Manager
office@solidgroundlandscape.com
With more than 20 years of experience in office administration, operations, and customer service, Katie plays a key role in keeping Solid Ground Landscape running efficiently and professionally. Her organizational skills, reliability, and proactive approach ensure that both the team and clients are well-supported every step of the way.
Katie’s background includes managing HR, scheduling, event planning, and office administration. She excels at building and refining workflows that boost productivity and create a seamless experience for both staff and customers. Known for her ability to stay calm under pressure and maintain a detail-oriented mindset, she brings a steady and positive energy to the workplace.
Passionate about cultivating a welcoming and professional environment, Katie focuses on building strong relationships with clients and fostering a supportive space for the entire team.
Jaclyn Dierking
Office ADMINISTRATOR
Jaclyn joined Solid Ground in early 2018. When the company opened its Talent office in October 2018, she stepped in with her organizational skills and enthusiasm, looking forward to years of growing with the company. Jaclyn relocated to Southern Oregon in 2013 in pursuit of a lifestyle filled with nature and tranquility. Her eclectic background provides her with 20 years of customer service experience and over 10 years in management. Her passion for art, design and photography led her to receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Art History from UC Riverside in 2008. Since moving to Oregon, she has worked in two nurseries and performed landscape maintenance for various private accounts which have allowed her to expand her passion and interest in plants. Joining the Solid Ground team, Jaclyn brings a variety of skills that go beyond office management, striving for the highest quality in her endeavors.