Michael Prokopchak, ASLA
President
Michael Prokopchak discovered his passion for the landscape industry at just 13 years old while working for a nursery in Davidsonville, MD. A graduate of Temple University with a degree in Landscape Architecture, he is a full member of the American Society of Landscape Architects and brings over 35 years of industry experience to his work. Known for his exceptional creativity and passion, Michael founded Walnut Hill Landscape Company to deliver unparalleled design and service. Under Michael’s leadership, Walnut Hill has earned numerous Grand Awards for design and installation from prestigious organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Landscape Contractors Association of MD, DC, and VA. His commitment to quality ensures that every project receives his personal attention, setting Walnut Hill apart from the competition. Beyond his professional achievements, Michael is dedicated to community service, volunteering as a firefighter/EMT and coaching youth lacrosse. He enjoys spending his leisure time boating on The Chesapeake Bay with his family and friends, embodying the same enthusiasm for life that he brings to his work.
Contact Michael at Mikep@walnuthilllandscape.com
Matt Davidson, CIT, CLIA
Director of Operations
Matt is a seasoned landscape operations leader and U.S. Air Force veteran with over 35 years of hands-on experience in irrigation management, field operations, and team development. His journey began at 16 mowing greens on a golf course—and from there, he’s cultivated a career rooted in excellence, discipline, and results. His technical expertise is backed by licensure in turf and ornamental care, as well as top-tier certifications including Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT) and Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor (CLIA). Matt’s leadership philosophy is deeply shaped by his military background. He served in the U.S. Air Force Security Forces, both with the D.C. National Guard and on active duty following 9/11. That mission-first mindset now guides his civilian work: he’s direct, disciplined, and fiercely committed to building high-performing teams that deliver measurable outcomes. Outside of work, Matt is a dedicated husband and father. He’s also an avid woodworker who enjoys working with his hands and building things with purpose—whether in the shop or in the field.
Contact Matt at Mattd@walnuthilllandscape.com
Shane Carmadella
Director of Sales & Coordination
Shane Carmadella, a Maryland-transplanted Navy brat, brings over 25 years of experience in landscape construction. Having worked for some of the largest firms in the DMV, he has developed a deep expertise in building and managing high-end outdoor environments that stand the test of time. As a key driver of growth and innovation at Walnut Hill, Shane’s leadership and industry experience strengthen our commitment to delivering exceptional landscape solutions for our clients. Outside of work, you’ll find him on the soccer field cheering on his two kids or enjoying a day out on the water.
Contact Shane at shane@walnuthilllandscape.com
Ben Rankin, PLA, ASLA
Landscape Architect
Ben received his Bachelors of Landscape Architecture with a minor in Sustainable Studies from the University of Maryland, College Park. In addition to being an active member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, Ben is a licensed Professional Landscape Architect. Through his many travels to Europe, Africa, and around the United States, he has grown to appreciate the unique landscapes that can be found throughout the world. Ben’s passion for both design and the outdoors made working for Walnut Hill an easy choice. He takes a detail oriented approach to design focusing on each client’s individual vision. When not at work, you can find him fishing the waters of Maryland, hunting the marshes of the Chesapeake Bay, or hiking with his wife and children.
Contact Ben at Ben@walnuthilllandscape.com
Kane Cunningham
Landscape Designer
Kane received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Maryland, College Park. Native to Maryland and raised on Kent Island. Kane has always had an eye for design and the outdoors. He enjoys hiking and climbing with his wife, as well as spending time collecting plants. After working for contractors, landscapers, and nearly 10 years of bartending, he brings practical industry experience, an eye for detail and a deep appreciation for customer service to Walnut Hill. Kane looks forward to bringing his designs to homes everywhere he can.
Contact Kane at Kane@walnuthilllandscape.com
Emily Marano
Landscape Management Account Manager
Originally from North Carolina, she relocated to the DMV area in 2002 after earning an Associate’s Degree in Landscape Gardening. Over the past two decades, she has built a successful career in the green industry, serving in roles such as estate gardener, residential and commercial account manager, and sales manager.
With a deep-rooted foundation in horticulture and a client-first mindset, she is passionate about cultivating landscapes that are not only beautiful and healthy but also reflect each client’s unique vision. From expansive estates to intimate residential gardens, she brings both a personal touch and a high level of professional expertise to every project.
She currently resides in Harwood with her husband and their three daughters.
Contact Emily at Emilym@walnuthilllandscape.com
Robert Camacho
Landscape Management Production Manager
Robert Camacho brings to Walnut Hill a rich background in the landscape industry with 20+ years of experience managing a full range of services including landscape management, hardscaping, planting, grading, and erosion control. Robert is a passionate individual who has a unique commitment to detail and craftsmanship, making him an ideal member of the Walnut Hill Team.
Contact Robert at Robert@walnuthilllandscape.com
Deborah Latham
Controller
Deborah has over 15 years’ experience in providing professional services across a broad range of finance areas including compliance, project financial management, inventory, internal control, business process, audit and financial reporting. She is committed to fostering a culture of transparency and continuous improvement to help us provide excellent customer service to our clients and our teams. Prior to joining Walnut Hill Landscape Company, Deborah held senior finance positions working within construction and service industries throughout Maryland.
Deborah earned a bachelor’s degree from Notre Dame of Maryland University with a Major in Accounting and a Minor in Business Management. When she is not working, she enjoys relaxing with family and friends, the outdoors, and traveling.
Contact Deborah at Deborah@walnuthilllandscape.com
Ben Ochoa
Director of Purchasing
Benjamin A. Ochoa spent his childhood growing up in San Diego, California and moved to Maryland in 2002. He’s been involved with the landscape industry since he was 16 years old helping his father during the summertime and weekends doing a variety of landscape projects. He has over 8 years of experience specifically in the Landscape Purchasing Industry servicing clients in the DMV area. Ben is bilingual in both English and Spanish and well-versed in keeping business operations cost-effective and customer satisfaction high.
Contact Ben at Beno@walnuthilllandscape.com
Angela Plumley
Project Estimator
Angela was born and raised in the great state of Maryland. She graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Landscape Architecture and a Minor in Horticulture. Angela brings with her over 5 years’ experience working in the project estimating realm of the residential, commercial, and government landscape industries. She has a strong passion for bringing designs to fruition. When not at work, Angela enjoys spending her free time caring for her own garden and hanging out with her pets.
Contact Angela at Angela@walnuthilllandscape.com
Ronald Orozco
Production Manager
Ronald holds an associate degree in science from the University of California, earned through a prestigious scholarship program. His passion for the landscape industry is matched by an impressive record of international education and leadership training, including a science scholarship to Taiwan, soil management studies at Jerusalem University in Israel, and a leadership degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. With over 15 years of hands-on experience in sales and maintenance across government, commercial, and residential contracts, Ronald brings both expertise and dedication to every project. He believes in leading with vision and purpose—values that shape both his work and life. Outside the professional sphere, Ronald is deeply engaged with his Christian congregation, Sinai Mount, where he serves as a leadership and Bible teacher, preacher, and worship leader. A talented musician, he plays drums and piano and is the lead singer for the congregation. He is also the author of a book on leadership, an avid reader, and most of all, a devoted family man who treasures quality time with his loved ones.
Contact Ronald at Ronald@walnuthilllandscape.com
Katie Tolman
Master Gardener
Katie has a lifelong love of gardening that sprouted from her childhood days, working with her father in his gardens. After graduating from Salem State College with a degree in social work, she worked with children and families in distress. As a stay-at-home mom, Katie satisfied her passion by gardening part-time. Over the years, Katie has continued to grow professionally, expanding her knowledge of horticulture by taking gardening courses, pouring over books and magazines, and learning about various plant species and proper care. Today, Katie balances a drive to maintain landscapes by caring for them meticulously with a creative eye. Her passion for gardening and attention to detail make her a wonderful fit for working at Walnut Hill. When Katie is not outside in a beautiful garden, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, having dinner with friends, boating, and going to the beach.
Contact Katie at Katie@walnuthilllandscape.com
Crew Members
Landscape/Construction and Landscape Management Divisions
Meet the heart and soul of our crews. Some have been here from the beginning, all of them have at least 7 years of experience with Walnut Hill Landscape. Combined, they represent over 85 years of expert landscape experience doing it “The Walnut Hill Way.” We are proud of our crews, their commitment to excellence and the example they show to the rest of our team.