July 2017 | Volume 38, Issue 7
FNGLA’S MONTHLY PUBLICATION: DIGITAL MONTHLY ISSUE LOCATED AT HTTP://GREENLINE.FNGLA.ORG
FNGLA Unveils Landscape Irrigation Certification Just in time for July’s Smart Irrigation Month, FNGLA unveils its plans for a new landscape irrigation technician certification. The certification, FNGLA’s sixth professional designation, coincides with FNGLA’s just-released public policy recommendations which are designed to increase landscape irrigation efficiencies to spur water savings for Florida. “The need to certify irrigation professionals has existed for some time,” said FNGLA President Ed Bravo, one of the certification’s architects. “With continuing regulatory pressure on all water uses and given the Water 2070 Report’s focus on landscape water use, FNGLA is taking the opportunity to lead by example.” Smart Irrigation Month was launched nationwide in 2005 by the Irrigation Association. The initiative is designed to “promote the social, economic and environmental benefits of efficient irrigation technologies, products and services in landscape, turf and agricultural irrigation.” FNGLA’s Landscape Irrigation Technician certification is slated to launch in 2018 and will focus on irrigation system service. This industry certification will sharpen technician skills to not only ensure landscape irrigation systems operate properly, yet are also maintained to maximize their efficiency to generate water savings for Florida and the property owner. “It is vital Florida’s landscape and irrigation professionals be given the means to prove basic competency, educate newly hired employees, as well as create a pathway which could ultimately lead toward a state irrigation license,” Bravo said. Plans are for FNGLA’s Landscape Irrigation Technician certification exams to be held throughout Florida beginning in 2018 in conjunction with FNGLA’s current Landscape Technician certifications. The format for the landscape irrigation technician certification will feature a hands-on portion where technicians can demonstrate their skills. For more information, contact FNGLA’s Merry Mott at mmott@fngla.org.
PRESIDENT’S LETTER
Ed Bravo, FNGLA 2017-2018 President
FNGLA Marches Forward With A Humble and Tenacious Leader I wish to start by thanking Robert Shoelson, Christy Savage-Griffin and the entire FNGLA Broward Chapter crew for a Blast in Fort Lauderdale! It was everything a great convention should be. A first-class venue, topshelf hospitality, fun activities and entertainment, well organized meetings and, oh yeah, Florida’s Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam as keynote speaker. Truly a memorable experience for all who attended! Rob held the gavel one last time at the FNGLA Annual and Board Meeting. During these meetings, UF/IFAS-SVP Jack Payne reported to us the effects of the Legislature’s budget cuts on IFAS and its programs, as well as his plans to mitigate the damage to faculty, staff and research projects. Dr. Sherry Larkin, UF/IFAS associate dean of research, updated the Board on the $1.3 million FNGLA Endowment Research Fund at the UF Foundation/SHARE. Will Womack presented his final Treasurer’s report and the Budget Committee’s recommended upcoming year’s budget which was duly approved. A new roundtable discussion was held in the Board meeting as a means to directly hear from each FNGLA chapter about its unique needs, concerns and local business conditions. Will likes to call this ‘touching’ the chapters and insisted on additional programs and funding to reach out to our chapters-- especially those who need it the most. Also on the agenda were updates on the legislative trip to D.C.; the new economic impact study; landscape irrigation policy; National Horticulture Foundation; new Fresh from Florida videos; and, Flip My Florida Yard. We all owe a debt of gratitude to each of the volunteer leaders and FNGLA staff who give their time and talents for the benefit of our Association and industry. Adam Putnam gave the keynote address at the president’s gala. Without any notes, he spoke from the heart on the issues we face and his plans for the future. I am proud and honored to report FNGLA member businesses heading
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into the convention raised $50,000 for his campaign for governor! Despite any political slant, I believe Adam Putnam is the right man for Florida -- with a keen knowledge of agriculture and the experience to deal with our issues. I wish to congratulate all of FNGLA’s Industry Award Winners. You are all so deserving and have the industry’s respect and heartfelt gratitude for your leadership and service. I also wish to thank my colleague and friend, Dr. Tom Yeager, UF/IFAS Professor of Environmental Horticulture, for roasting me in front of my family, peers and industry mentors. Tom is the backbone of FNGLA’s Frontrunners Chapter and has served as an advisor to our chapter board for many years. Tom has my respect and admiration and I only wish I had said so in my speech. In closing, I’d like to tell you a little story from my childhood when I tried out for little league baseball. I showed up each day with my best glove and cap. At the end of the week, the coaches lined up the kids and selected their teams... I was not one of them. I got cut ! For the next year, I practiced with my dad every day, slowly improving. Two years later, I pitched for the all-star team against the city champions. And guess what? We beat them! I learned early in life to set the bar high and work towards a goal and adjust the plan as needed. Failure is an opportunity to improve and is only permanent if one chooses to stop trying. I am humbled to represent you, the members of FNGLA, and I pledge to constantly improve and never stop trying and learning! Respectfully, Ed Bravo Big Trees Plantation (Gainesville, FL) bigtreesplantation@gmail.com
CERTIFICATION NEWS FNGLA Certification Exam Prep Simplified With New Website
Fall Exam Certification Schedule Set
FNGLA has rolled out a new website so it’s easier and more convenient to study for its certification exams: www. FNGLAPlantID.com.
With Florida’s daily rain showers accelerating plant and turf growth statewide, it may be hard to imagine now, yet fall is just around the corner. Looking ahead to less hectic months, FNGLA has released its fall certification testing schedule:
It is a “one-stop shop” for all things FNGLA certification, according to Merry Mott, FNGLA’s director of certifications and career development.
FCLT/MT Exam SeaWorld, Orlando Saturday, August 26 (Includes exam walk-through on Friday, August 25)
“The central component of the site is a series of plant ID flash cards,” Mott said. “Test preppers can test their knowledge using dozens of digital flashcards which first show photos of a plant species and then flip to display the plant’s common and scientific name. There’s even a pronunciation audio clip!”
FCLT/MT Training Knowledge College at The Landscape Show Friday, September 15 FCLD (Designer) Training Knowledge College at The Landscape Show Saturday, September 16
This new FNGLAPlantID site boasts an easy-to-navigate, simplified format, and responsive design, making it effortless to study on both desktop and mobile devices, according to Kate Clary, strategic engagement specialist at FNGLA, the site’s architect.
FCLT/MT Training – NEW LOCATION!! Florida Gateway College, Lake City Friday, September 22
“The mission is to make the new FNGLAPlantID site easily accessible so those who use it to study can do so from anywhere and whenever they have a few free moments – even if those moments come while they’re sitting in their trucks with their smartphones,” Clary said.
FCLT/MT Exam – NEW LOCATION!! Florida Gateway College, Lake City Friday, October 13
FNGLAPlantID site also includes instructional videos on several components of the hands-on certification exams, as well as a calendar of upcoming certification test dates, according to Mott. And, more video additions are planned throughout the summer, Mott added. The new site replaces an earlier Plant ID CD-ROM program which FNGLA pioneered in the late 1990s. “The hope with the new FNGLAPlantID site is to empower our certified professionals with what they need at their fingertips to take their careers to new heights,” Mott said.
FCLT/MT Training UF Ft. Lauderdale REC, Davie Friday, October 27 FCLT Bilingual Training UF Miami-Dade Extension, Homestead Saturday, October 28 FCLT/MT Exam UF Ft. Lauderdale REC, Davie Friday, November 10
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FNGLA HAPPENINGS FNGLA’s Annual Convention Brought Insight, Fun & Connections FNGLA’s 2017 Annual Convention brought nearly 250 FNGLA members together for business connections, industry insights and plenty of fun. Taking place June 23 & 24 at the B Ocean Resort in Fort Lauderdale, the FNGLA Convention was attended by members, family and friends from across the state and as far as Australia. A diverse selection of FNGLA exclusive activities offered something for everyone, including: FNGLA customized tours; a weather-perfect Beach Bash; recognition and celebration of FNGLA’s industry award winner; and, the Association’s year-long achievements. A bonus feature of the convention was the keynote address by Adam Putnam, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services during the President’s Gala finale event. Making a difference to communities via landscaping is important to FNGLA members, so FNGLA’s convention started early with a local community service project. 14 members and other volunteers enhanced the landscape at the David Park Community Center in Hollywood, FL. All of the plants and trees were donated by FNGLA members with FNGLA member - Luke’s Landscaping - coming in a day early to do significant prep work. Local FNGLA members - John and Darlene Harris - coordinated the project which partnered with the local Kiwanis Club to provide refreshments. The Official Kick-Off of the convention was the Welcome Beach Bash on the spectacular private beach of the B Ocean Resort. The ocean backdrop was the perfect setting to reconnect with FNGLA colleagues and make new industry friends while enjoying a plentiful buffet, soothing steel drum sounds, as well as a high-energy Japanese Taiko drum show. Saturday was a full day of activities which opened with FNGLA’s Annual Membership meeting and ended in a grade finale at the President’s Gala. The afternoon allowed for networking time by the pool, volleyball and beach games, as well as an exclusive FNGLA tour of the Bonnet House and Gardens. With a standing-room-only turnout at the Annual Membership meeting, seven FNGLA members were recognized as the 2017 Industry Award Winners. They included Gene Batson as this year’s inductee into the FNGLA Hall of Fame, as well as Wes and Vickie Parrish as the 2017 Wendell E. Butler Award winner - FNGLA’s most prestigious award. Other highlights of the Membership meeting were the video presentation of FNGLA’s Year-In Review;
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FNGLA HAPPENINGS
the State-of-the-Association address by FNGLA CEO Ben Bolusky; and, the election of FNGLA’s new slate of officers including Ed Bravo (Big Trees Plantation, Ocala) as FNGLA’s incoming president. FNGLA Broward Chapter members and friends deserve a round of applause as this Convention’s host chapter. Upon arrival, Convention attendees received a jam-packed welcome bag of goodies from FNGLA’s Broward Chapter. They made fun a priority with entertaining crab races in the hospitality suite; pool and beach activities; a “real” mermaid at the pool; and, a photo booth for souvenir photos from the President’s Gala. The robust schedule and extra-value experiences at this year’s convention were possible thanks to the generous sponsorships of many FNGLA member firms. Thank you to all the sponsors and, especially, top sponsors: Stallings Crop Insurance; Groundworks of Palm Beach County; Bobcat; Matt Antos, LPL Financial Services; and, ProAg. See the gallery of images: https://goo.gl/photos/hp2nEnkrVSXwJoBa6.
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FNGLA HAPPENINGS Increasing the GREEN for David Park Community Center An FNGLA Convention Service Project, Ft. Lauderdale By John A. Harris, CF, RCA, CA, TRAQ, CLI (Earth Advisors in Hollywood) The planting of a new entrance landscape, playground perimeter hedge, and 2 new canopy trees, was a fast afternoon project for our FNGLA volunteers the day prior to the official start of the FNGLA Annual Convention. 14 members from FNGLA chapters across the state and their hardworking family members moving plants, installing shrubs, weeding, mulching, and generously giving back with their efforts. Starting our 2017 Convention with service to a local community center was the right thing to do. The choice for bringing a new sustainable landscape to the David Park Community Center in Hollywood, FL, came from a three-month review process of service centers and facilities serving children and special needs populations in South Florida. Our FNGLA President Robert Shoelson had a vision to improve a property where kids can experience the benefits of a well planned, sustainable landscape. A team reviewed, and interviewed, over 22 properties before deciding on the David Park Community Center. Here, there are daytime and evening programs serving children, at risk youth, special need youth, adults, and seniors. It is a busy place all year round. Some instant gratification was gained at the end of the afternoon, when approximately 100 children returned from a field trip and were greeted by the new landscape. Yes, excitement was felt by all, and lots of smiles were shared. Volunteers also got to walk through the results with the City of Hollywood’s Dale Bryant (Landscape Architect) and Joshua Collazo (Grounds and Urban Forestry Supervisor). There was a clear and palatable sense of pride of ownership among those who were part of the effort. FNGLA succeeds through the leadership and participation of it’s members, and this service project was a GREEN first step into the 2017 Convention-- the place to B!
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A Final Thank You for a Special Effort
SPECIAL THANKS! Partner organizations included: City of Hollywood, Kiwanis Club of Hollywood, and the Hollywood Hills Civic Association. Nurseries donating material included: Vida Verde Farms, R. Plants Nursery; Petra Farms; Kevin Nursery; Bamboo Hammock Nursery; Earth Advisors; Luke’s Landscape; and, Getting Green Plant Service. Individuals who generously donated their time were: Wes Parrish; Billy Butterfield; Ed Bravo; Robert Shoelson; Emily Shoelson; Matthew Shoelson; Kaylee Reindl; Allie Reindl; Rob Pursell; John Harris; Darlene Harris; Rod Marquardt; Jim Plowman; and, Terry Campbell.
By Robert Shoelson, FNGLA Immediate Past President (Getting Green Plant Services, Inc. in Davie and Betrock Information Systems in Hollywood) Over the course of the FNGLA Annual Convention, I repeatedly thanked the sponsors and volunteers who made the weekend such a huge success. I now wish to thank the companies and individuals who came out a day early to help with the community service project held at the David Park Community Center in Hollywood. The center provides a safe playground for children and works with special needs, family and senior services in South Broward County and Hollywood, FL. I entrusted my good friend John Harris, Earth Advisors, to chair this part of our convention. John selected this park because it fit exactly what we were trying to accomplish. The park was in desperate need of a good clean up and some new plants. We decided this was the perfect spot and drew up a landscape plan. John sent me a plant list and my team started contacting several nurseries to help with the plant donations. Each nursery contacted immediately said they would be happy to help and in no time, we had all the plants and supplies ready to do. A day or two before we arrived, Luke’s Landscape removed much of the old plants and prepped all the beds for the new plantings. Without their help, this would have been an extremely difficult job to accomplish in half a day. All we had to do now was a little more trimming, plant and mulch. Approximately thirteen of us arrived around noon to get started. We planned to be out there working until 4 or 4:30 p.m. As soon as everyone was there, shovels hit the ground and we were moving. Some of the plants we used were Paradise Trees, viburnum suspensum, Petite Ixora, Flax lily and variegated liriope. Once everything went in the ground, we finished up with some cypress mulch. The end result was beautiful. The park looked refreshed and from what I heard after we left, not only were the kids attending the park for summer camp amazed and thrilled, the City of Hollywood was also very happy at the outcome. They plan to start cleaning up more of their parks using the same plant palette as we used at David Park. This was a great way to start the convention, by giving back to the community. I want to personally thank every person and every company who contributed to make this happen.
FNGLA HAPPENINGS Our Industry Needs FNGLA & Its Benefits Run Deep
By Shawn Thomas, FNGLA Secretary/Treasurer (Southern Green Chemical Lawn Care in Jacksonville) There are many great reasons why it is important for any company-- landscaping, irrigation, designers, lighting, pavers etc.-- to be a member of the FNGLA. FNGLA is the #1 and largest association in the State of Florida representing our industry. They lead the charge in all efforts for us. The reasons to become a member are pretty much limitless. Anything you can think of FNGLA can help: networking; political action; trade shows; youth education; certifications; leadership training; discounts on trucks; insurance; equipment; and, on and on. Whether you are just wanting to get to know other businesses in your area; are worried about state and federal legislators; or, maybe you are looking for a friend to help, FNGLA is here for you. I have heard if you do not have a voice at the government level, like FNGLA does, you may wake up and find yourself regulated right out of business. Add this to the list of FNGLA’s core benefits. When I try to get a new business to join FNGLA, the first comment from them sometimes is, “How is it going to make me more money?” The answer? FNGLA is going to help your business grow and they give you the tools you need to get there. Growing your business surely sounds like making money to me! My personal passion for this Association is the nonmonetary benefits it offers. Some could argue they are “priceless.” My three biggest draws to FNGLA are: its dedication to educating and sponsoring youth; its commitment to enhancing the greatness of our industry; and, its networking with the members of the association I have met over the years. I really enjoy working with youth, especially those wanting to be part of our industry. If you were to ask any business what is the biggest issue it is facing right now, I am sure all would say we need workers. FNGLA offers many great opportunities for these youth-- scholarships and certifications to name two. Our industry needs these kids and we need them at the higher levels at our businesses, as foreman, superintendents and managers. My local chapter holds an annual trade show and 100% of the money is donated right back into youth programs. There are many other chapters which do the same. These young individuals are the future of our industry. FNGLA is always looking out for what is best for our industry. FNGLA has one of the greatest staffs. They are always fighting for our rights as businesses. They don’t just sit back and wait for problems to occur. They find the problems before they even come up and act on finding resolutions, whether it be an educational issue, safety, or regulatory issue. It is always good to know someone is watching out for you-- particularly when you are busy running a business and fear you may overlook something. Finally, I have met some of the greatest people in my life through this Association. They are from all different aspects of our industry. If there is ever something I don’t know or an area in which I am unsure, the first thing I do is call on one of the members. I can honestly say I have never been turned down on a question. If they don’t know the answer, they will call someone who does. I would consider the members some of my best friends. As we age in life we lose touch with some of the friends we whom we grew up. I really enjoy the great comradery I have with other members and this is the biggest reason why I love being a member of the FNGLA.
You Too Can Be A Part of FNGLA
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With over 1900 members from across all walks of the industry, FNGLA is a great resource for both you and for your business. Join Shawn in enjoying the benefits FNGLA’s members enjoy. Join now: www.fngla.org/join!
FNGLA HAPPENINGS Florida’s Nursery & Landscape Industry Generates Big Economic Impact New Study shows $21 Billion in Total Output Sales and 232,000+ Jobs With a 37% increase in total output since its last economic study five years ago, Florida’s nursery and landscape industry generates $21.08 billion in total output sales and over 232,000 jobs. This is according to the economic impact study (the fourth in its series since 2000) conducted by the University of Florida/IFAS on behalf of FNGLA - the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association. The $21.08 billion in total output sales is comprised of: $4.55 billion for Nursery & Greenhouse Crop Production; $10.11 billion for Landscape Design, Installation and Maintenance; and, $6.42 billion for Retail/Garden Centers. Allied Supplies are reflected in the above numbers accounting independently for $2.426 billion. Photo Courtesy of Butler Tree Farm, Lakeland Florida’s nursery and landscape industry created 28,000 jobs between 2010 and 2015 and directly employs a statewide workforce of 232,650 people. Additional study highlights: • Industry sales to markets outside Florida brings nearly $1.6 billion in new net revenue into Florida. • Florida wages, benefits and income are an estimated $8.7 billion. • 31% of Florida landscape sales are to builders and developers, while suppliers sold $170 million in irrigation equipment. “FNGLA has long exclaimed this is a small business industry with a big business impact on Florida’s economy,” said Ben Bolusky, FNGLA’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the Great Recession in our rear-view mirror, the study’s numbers reflect what FNGLA intrinsically knew - the nursery and landscape industry has cemented its prominence as one of Florida’s economic engines.” The authors of the University of Florida/IFAS study are: Alan W. Hodges, PhD; Hayk Khachatryan, PhD; Mohammad Rahmani, PhD; and, Christa D. Court, PhD. Access the study’s Executive Summary at http://www.fngla.org/resources/economicimpact-study/EconomicImpactForWeb2015.pdf or access the complete report at http:// www.fngla.org/resources/economic-impact-study/Economic%20Contributions%20of%20 Environmental%20Hort%20Industry%20in%20Florida%202015%2011-22-16.pdf. FNGLA is the nation’s largest state nursery association and, today, represents Florida’s 1,900 leading nursery and landscape businesses. FNGLA’s mission is to promote and protect the interests of Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.
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FNGLA HAPPENINGS Plan Now to Attend The Landscape Show: September 14 - 16 Plan now to be at The Landscape Show, September 14 - 16 in Orlando at the Orange County Convention Center’s North Concourse! Considered the Southeast’s most extensive nursery and landscape event, the event brings together over 7,000 attendees all in one place and at one time and oozes with ideas to grow your business. Register now to receive a value-packed price of just $20 for a show badge, which includes • Complimentary admission to the Opening Night Reception • Access to the Trends Pavilion showcasing four Outdoor Living feature gardens • A seat at the “Cool Products” award happenings • A seat among your peers at the “Ideas Sharing Sessions” • Admission to Tapped In (for the 40 and under crowd) • Admission to The Landscape Awards Presentation • Access to the FNGLA Certifications Showcase • Access to the Exhibitors’ Showcase featuring new plants and products • Plus much, much more The Landscape Show offers tremendous value and convenience. With more than 400 exhibiting companies in nearly 800 booth spaces, The Landscape Show is the ultimate resource to see what’s new, hear the latest information, seek out great deals and touch base with old, new and potential clients. The Landscape Show is ideal for those specializing in plants, trees, hardscape and horticulture-related supplies. Horticulture products lines vary from trees, plants, shrubs, liners, annuals, perennials, foliage, turf grass and more. Hard good supplies include soils, mulches, equipment, nursery and greenhouse supplies, pavers, stones, statuary and much more. Register now for the best show pricing & best pricing for the The Knowledge College, which is offering an amazing 23 unique sessions and workshops to bring you in-depth learning relevant to your business. With so many sessions and so many experts, there’s bound to be sessions of both interest and relevance to propel your business to the next level. See all the event details, including educational session topics at www.thelandscapeshow.org.
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Build Your Brand With High-Profile Placements Opening Day Reception
Position yourself as the show’s big sponsor: Your logo and brand image splashed throughout the event. Special Recognition at the reception plus additional drink tickets for your customers.
SOLD
Morning Coffee Service* – $1,200
Attendees and Exhibitors alike participate in the morning ritual of coffee. Splash your logo at this vital spot where so many get their morning started! Service runs one hour.
p to:
Use Your Sponsorshi
fic Increase Booth Traf ess Raise Brand Awaren ers with Your Custom Enhance Relations se A New Product Launch or Showca s Leads Generate New Sale ort for the Industry Demonstrate Supp
Registration Area* – $2,500
Be among the first images show attendees see with your logo prominently displayed throughout the registration area. This is an exclusive sponsorship and an excellent opportunity to get your business on the radar of those visiting registration.
Lobby Banners – $1,000 & up plus banner
Take advantage of front and center exposure as thousands pass through this central show area every day. Multiple high visibility locations available. Banner to be supplied by sponsoring company. Rigging charges may apply. Estimated 14,000 impressions.
Commit Now For Best Selection! Aisle Banner – $750 per aisle
Own your aisle with this great option! Excellent visibility for your company with your logo hanging beneath the aisle number on a double-sided sign. Select your aisle strategically!
Charging Station* $750
Be seen as a problemsolver as the Charging Station sponsor. As devices lose their charge, be the friendly face associated with “saving the day.” Your logo will appear on signage placed at the station.
TappedIn: A Networking Event for Young Professionals* – $500
An after-hours networking event targeting the upand-coming professionals within the industry. Multiple opportunities.
Show Bag* – $500 plus bags
Exclusive sponsorship of the official “show bag” distributed to attendees at the show’s entrance and registration areas. Your brand will be seen throughout the show hall!
SOLD
Floor Graphics – $500 each
Use floor graphics to steer visitors directly to your booth! Each sticker is 3’ X 4’ in size and is placed in areas such as the show entry, prominent walkways and show common spaces. Floor Graphics are a popular choice for many exhibitors and spaces are limited, so reserve your spot early!
Rest Stops* – $500 each
Your company signage will be a welcome sight for buyers wanting to sit down and rest during their travels in the exhibit hall. Rest Stops each have a bench and, of course, your signage prominently displayed.
u ! w o N p U n g i S Show Poster* – $2,000
Have your company logo displayed on The Landscape Show poster this year. Everyone wants to see the poster and over 3,000 are distributed to show attendees and exhibitors at the show.
SOLD
Digital Lobby/Convention Area Signage – From $1,000 Integrate your image into the convention center’s digital signage. Many placements are possible, even columns! Cost expands with exposure and expected foot traffic.
Show Lanyard* – $500 plus lanyards
Be in eye-shot of virtually every conversation at the show! Distributed to attendees at the show’s registration area, your supplied lanyards will have high visibility!
SOLD
The Knowledge College – $300 per workshop*
Position yourself to a specific targeted audience. Each program will bring a concentrated targeted audience.
Mobile Website Display Ad Space – $200 (5 spots maximum)
Step in front of attendees as they use the FNGLA Mobile Tradeshow Web/ App. Your company will be featured on everyone’s cell phone screen before, during and after the show to maximize your digital presence!
Window Static Clings $1,000 to $5,000
With the new hall, comes new opportunities! Put your brand eye-level or higher with window promotions. From entry doors and exit doors to larger areas, each opportunity has great visibility. Call for sizing and available locations.
Show Directory Ad Placement
The show directory lives on long after the show is gone and for many, is a valued reference document. Showcase your business here, starting at only $215 for a quarter page black and white spot. A full page, color placement is only $950 (both are FNGLA member rates). Additionally, for a few dollars more, your ad can appear near a specified listing, as space permits.
*indicates you will appear as a “Sponsor” on various promotional pieces
INDUSTRY NEWS Commissioner Putnam Awarded 2017 US Water Prize Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam was presented with the 2017 US Water Prize in acknowledgement of his leadership on water issues in Florida. The prize was award by the US Water Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the nation about the true value of water and advancing policies and programs that manage water resources to advance a better quality of life for everyone. The US Water Alliance honored three organizations and, for the first time, two individuals for advancing innovative solutions to the nation’s water challenges. The seventh annual awards ceremony took place during the 2017 One Water Summit late June in New Orleans. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished in Florida. With a growing demand on our limited water resources, we could be California right now. But with strong, conservative leadership here in Florida, we’ve taken proactive measures to meet the needs of our state by growing our water supply and improving the health of our lakes, springs and rivers. However, there’s more work to do,” said Putnam. Putnam added, “We must protect our water quality and quantity in order to accommodate our explosive population growth, to promote prosperity, and to preserve the invaluable natural resources which make Florida so unique.” Commissioner Adam H. Putnam has long-prioritized addressing the state’s water challenges. Most notably, Commissioner Putnam has: • Helped secure funding for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan; • Worked with the Legislature to establish long-term, comprehensive and science-based water policy that prioritizes projects which can yield the greatest measurable improvements in the areas that needed them most; • Supported the Central Florida Water Initiative, which focuses on the area surrounding Orlando; and • Focused on environmentally sensitive lands through his advocacy of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program, which has protected nearly 37,000 acres from development – a 900% increase in acres preserved by the program since 2011. “Florida’s population is projected to reach 35 million by 2070. With additional stresses on our water supply, it’s imperative that we remain focused on comprehensive and long-term solutions to our water challenges,” added Putnam. For more information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com
FNGLA Member Benefits From the Fresh From Florida Campaign FNGLA members can take advantage of the following customized benefits: Use of widely recognized Fresh From Florida logo on products, packaging, advertising and promotional materials including catalogs; Point-of-purchase materials to display with Florida-grown products; Customized business signage with the Fresh From Florida logo; Company listing and website link on the Fresh From Florida website; Discounted advertising in industry publications; Trade leads and exporting assistance; Subscription to the Fresh From Florida magazine. For point-of-purchase items available at no cost or for additional information, contact Fresh From Florida at 850-617-7399.
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INDUSTRY NEWS Fresh From Florida Benefits For FNGLA Members By: Candace Munz, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services As the country’s largest state nursery and landscape association, it should come as no surprise that FNGLA membership provides a wide range of benefits and discounts as well as access to benefits from other organizations. For the past three years, this has included access to Fresh From Florida member benefits through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). What began in 1990 as an effort to increase consumer awareness and expand the market for Florida agricultural products, the Fresh From Florida brand has grown worldwide through domestic and international retail partnerships. Fresh From Florida membership gives you the ability to use the widely recognized logo on products, packaging, advertising and promotional materials including your business’ website and social media. Members also receive a choice of customized Fresh From Florida business signage and have access to pointof-purchase materials to display with Florida grown products. Researchers at the University of Florida recently conducted a study to determine how consumers responded to the “Fresh From Florida” campaign when applied to ornamental plants. The study found that the presence of the Fresh From Florida logo improved purchase likelihood by 52% when compared to imported plants. Researchers determined that consumer’s positive perception of local plants could increase sales through promotion of the Fresh From Florida logo. Read the full study at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fe976. Fresh From Florida membership benefits also include assistance with exporting, trade leads and industry trade show participation. Over the years, members have enjoyed opportunities such as participating in the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival held annually by Disney each spring. In addition to member booths, the department also provides a display featuring plants from Fresh From Florida producers, dazzling the park’s more than 30,000 visitors daily. In conjunction with growers, marketers and retailers promoting the Fresh From Florida brand, FDACS utilizes the power of social media to bolster brand awareness and support FNGLA members. Most recently, the Fresh From Florida Facebook page featured a social campaign focused on ornamental horticulture for the month of April. Within 30 days, the ad received 803,175 impressions, reached 177,866 people and ultimately resulted in 12,515 people clicking the advertisement which sent them to FNGLA’s consumer website, FloridaGardening.com. In addition to social media, the marketing campaign for FNGLA included advertising in consumer print publications such as Martha Stewart Living, Better Homes and Gardens and Family Circle. There were also several flights of 30-second television spots that aired in ten major markets across Florida during March and April. Harnessing brand awareness of the Fresh From Florida program is a great way to put your FNGLA membership to work for you. See even more of the ways to benefit from Fresh From Florida efforts: http:// www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Marketing-and-Development/Agriculture-Industry/FreshFrom-Florida-Industry-Membership/Welcome-FNGLA-Members.
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INDUSTRY NEWS LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY
Improving Irrigation Efficiency
9 billion gallons of water per day is used for residential outdoor water use.
25,000 gallons of water
As much as
50%
of the water we use outdoors is wasted due to inefficient watering methods and systems.
could be wasted in one six-month season by having just one broken sprinkler head.
Data from United States Environmental Protection Agency
Check Sprinkler Heads
Slow the Flow If water is applied too quickly, it can cause the water to run off of the landscape and into the street.
Ensure that sprinkler heads are properly placed and set-up so they aren’t irrigating the sidewalk.
Use Low Volume Irrigation Use drip irrigation, micro-sprinklers, or bubbler irrigation for planting beds and narrow strips of vegetation.
Install a Rain Sensor A rain sensor detects rain and shuts off an irrigation system.
Smart Irrigation Month is an Irrigation Association initiative to increase awareness of the value of water use ‌ and grow demand for water-saving products, practices and services. For more great resources, visit: www.smartirrigationmonth.com The Irrigation Association is a membership organization dedicated to promoting efficient irrigation. www.irrigation.org
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INDUSTRY NEWS July is Smart Irrigation Month: Celebrate and Educate Smart Irrigation Month is an Irrigation Association initiative to promote the social, economic and environmental benefits of efficient irrigation technologies, products and services in landscape, turf and agricultural irrigation. After 12 years, Smart Irrigation Month continues to gain traction as stakeholders recognize the positive impact of efficient irrigation. There are many ways to benefit from the effort and to leverage Smart Irrigation Month to your advantage. Learn more about water saving technology and encourage smarter water usage; promote innovative smart water technologies and practices; and, promote local regulation and water schedules in a positive light. The Irrigation Association provides the following as a means for elevating knowledge on the importance of one of our most precious natural resources, water:
Be a Smart Leader
Do your customers understand efficient irrigation can save them water and dollars? Get tips and ideas about how to be an industry leader by communicating the value of efficient irrigation this Smart Irrigation Month. • Add the Smart Irrigation Month logo to your website, ads or newsletter. • Include an article or infographic on irrigation in your marketing efforts. • Learn the latest happenings related to water conservation and smart practices and be a resource for your customers-- through your interactions and via printed materials such as billing stuffers.
Engage Media
There are multiple ways to get the Smart Irrigation Month message out to your various audiences. • Share your knowledge of irrigation by writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. • Spread the word about Smart Irrigation Month in your community with public service announcements. • Promote your support of Smart Irrigation Month with a press release to local newspapers, association newsletters or trade publications.
Advocate for Efficient Irrigation
Nationally, the Irrigation Association takes the Smart Irrigation Month message to Congress and communities across the country. Join in the effort by promoting the importance of water-use efficiency in irrigation. • Increase public awareness of water-use efficiency by encouraging your community, city and state government to officially proclaim July as Smart Irrigation Month. • Watch FNGLA, the Irrigation Association, and other groups for policy positions related to water’s governance
Promote to Customers and to Consumers
Smart Irrigation Month is a public awareness campaign, via the Irrigation Association, to promote efficient water use. Using water wisely: • Saves money on your utility bill. • Nurtures green spaces delivering real environmental benefits. • Protects your community’s water supply for generations to come. • Minimizes needed investments in infrastructure to store and carry water. Utilize infographics to your benefit. The information to the left, and others similar in nature, are available for industry use and can be downloaded and accessed at http://www.irrigation.org/IA/Resources/Smart-IrrigationMonth-Resources.aspx.
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INDUSTRY NEWS Houzz Brings Even More to Landscape Industry With New Partnership, NALP Houzz, a premier online platform community of more than 40 million users for home renovation and design, recently announced its partnership with NALP, the National Association of Landscape Professionals. NALP’s consumer website, LoveYourLandscape.org will include Houzz-provided content among the terms of the partner agreement and NALP will host the People’s Choice Awards on Houzz several times throughout the year. Some of NALP’s Awards of Excellencewinning projects will be featured, and the Houzz community and NALP network will vote on their favorites. “It’s great to see Houzz place more emphasis on landscape and outdoor living. Houzz attracts high-end consumers looking to invest in home improvement. This is a serious positive for our industry and for those doing high-end residential services,” said Teresa Watkins, owner of Sustainable Horticultural Environments in Orlando. FNGLA members and certified professionals can promote their affiliation as part of their profiles. Businesses employing FNGLA-certified professional certification holders have the oppotunity to include an “FNGLA badge” as part of their Houzz profile. Plus FNGLA member businesses can list themselves as part of the FNGLA group for even more visibility and credibility.
The Florida Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a non-profit organization committed to serving the needs of Florida’s professional arborists and tree-care consumers.
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MEMBER NEWS Historic Minor League Field Revamp Teams MLB and BrightView The second oldest minor league ballpark in the U.S. needed renovation in preparation to host the MLB Little League Classic Game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the St. Louis Cardinals on August 20, during the Little League World Series-- and BrightView, possibly the nation’s largest landscape contracting firm with over 22,000 team members, is teaming up with them to do so. BrightView Design Group and BrightView’s Sports Turf and Development teams designed and installed the project, which began on March 1 and included the removal of 18” of material from the space. “We started by installing a new drainage system and irrigation, then four inches of pea gravel and the root-zone level of the playing surface, followed by four inches of infield clay mix,” said Dennis Winkler, general superintendent of construction at BrightView Landscape Development. “We faced some initial challenges getting the new material to subgrade due to the weather.” The Williamsport Crosscutters is the field’s home team. They recently played their home opener on the newly-renovated field. BrightView will continue to maintain the field through the MLB Little League Classic game. “We’ve worked with Major League Baseball for several years on fields around the world and we’re honored to work on this project in Williamsport,” said Murray Cook, President of BrightView Sports Turf. “The Crosscutters and our other partners onsite have been great and we can’t wait for game day.”
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MEMBER NEWS
Welcome New Members ACTION Nawaf Alobaid (Student) 9206 Randal Park Blvd Apt 2121 Orlando, FL 32832 949-422-6324
Merchant Owl LLC Rich Kling 478 E Altamonte Dr Ste 108 #294 Altamonte Springs, FL 32701-4628 407-883-2246 Mid Florida REC - Apopka Chris Marble (Supportive) 2725 S Binion Rd Apopka, FL 32703-8504 407-410-6963 Sun Gro Horticulture Pat Arrowsmith (Associate) 6021 Beggs Rd Orlando, FL 32810-2600 407-291-1676 BIG BEND Floyd Fisher (Supportive) 2769 Springforest Rd Tallahassee, FL 32301 850-241-4596 BROWARD All American Roofing Inc. Susan Manning 944 W Prospect Rd Oakland Park, FL 33309 954-772-7663 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck Arcon Industries Inc. Emanuel Cazacu 2280 NW 16 St Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-234-3031 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck Bio Global Group Miguel Castillo-Lagrange 18900 Stirling Rd Southwest Ranches, FL 33332 954-440-9949 CSL, Inc. Maik Silva 3710 NE 17 Ave Pompano Beach, FL 33064 954-642-6185 Cutting Edge Concrete Cutting William Burgess 1753 N Powerline Rd Pompano Beach, FL 33069 754-245-3388 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck D & L Services Corp Jose Medina 1700 NW 22 Ct Pompano Beach, FL 33069 954-682-4209 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck Design & Cut Landscape Services Inc. Sharon Armstrong 4860 SW 61st Davie, FL 33314 954-584-9310 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck
The following are new FNGLA members from June 1 - June 30, 2017:
Father & Sons Lawn and Landscape Alberto Carachure 7953 SW 6th Ct Pompano Beach, FL 33068 954-410-2529 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck Jose Domingo Lawn Service Jose Domingo 1484 NE 20th Ct Pompano Beach, FL 33064 786-923-7320 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck O Professional Services LLC Orlando Smith 2630 N Pine Island Rd Sunrise, FL 33322 754-234-2749 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck Paletz Roofing & Inspections Cindy Paletz 4980 SW 52nd St Davie, FL 33324 954-916-6642 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck CENTRAL EAST COAST Yard Escapes LLC Jamie Roster 18 C Enterprise Dr Bunnell, FL 32110 386-237-4810 Rec’d by: Rudeana Kirk, Avid Gardner MANASOTA Three Seasons LLC Richard Alexander 3720 57th St E Palmetto, FL 34221 941-748-4613 MIAMI-DADE Green Depot Produce LLC Maureen Lopez 16622 SW 114th Ct Miami, FL 33157 305-494-4373
Landpro Solutions LLC Eduardo Cora 8724 SW 72 St #404 Miami, FL 33173 305-598-7769 Rec’d by: Ivonne Alexander, Happy Days Nursery, Inc. The Native Guy Nicolas Bofill 6619 S Dixie Hwy #407 Miami, FL 33143 305-495-1075 Natures Way Nursery of Miami, Inc. Sylvia Portuondo (Affiliate) PO Box 971129 Miami, FL 33197-1129 305-251-6521 Railroad Nursery, Inc. Joseph Vendetta (Affiliate) 17855 SW 248th St Homestead, FL 33031-1801 305-245-4595
1. Action 2. Big Bend 3. Broward 4. Central East Coast 5. Coastal Springs 6. Miami-Dade 7. Frontrunners 8. Highlands Heartland 9. Polk
10. Manasota 11. Northeast 12. Palm Beach 13. Panhandle 14. Pinellas 15. Royal Palm 16. Space Coast 17. Tampa Bay 18. Treasure Coast
OUTSIDE FLORIDA Cappsure, Inc. Michael Martinez 245 Sunpac Ave Henderson, NV 89011 702-795-0192
King Grass Lawn Service, LLC Mario Santiago Cruz 140 10th Ave NW Naples, FL 34120 239-777-2314 Rec’d by: Steele Truck Center, Inc.
Cowart Mulch Products, Inc. Mark Orlandella 185 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Sugar Hill, GA 30518 770-932-6161
Stahlman-England Irrigation, Inc. Steve Hall 2063 Trade Center Way Naples, FL 34109 239-514-1200
Nutrient Control Systems, Inc. Alyson Kemp 126 Sunset Blvd East Chambersburg, PA 17202 717-261-5711
SPACE COAST Ground Professionals LLC Mark Rutkowski 2135 Aurora Rd Melbourne, FL 32935 321-917-3418 Rec’d by: Becky Crews, Four C's Nursery
PALM BEACH A Better Landscape Company Richard Collins 1312 Commerce Ln Jupiter, FL 33458 561-741-2106 Q Plus Food, LLC Joyell Fleites 3632 NW 16th St Lauderhill, FL 33311 954-401-8808 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck Wholesale Roofing Corporation Craig Teller 8130 Glades Rd #209 Boca Raton, FL 33434 561-350-0701 Rec’d by: Steve Weiss, Tri County Truck ROYAL PALM Edwards Tree Service, Inc. Ron Edwards 17850 Rebecca Ave Fort Myers, FL 33931 239-454-1188 Rec’d by: Matt Fleming, Steele Truck Center, Inc.
TAMPA BAY Deere-Scape LLC Sean Strano 3312 Cummings Pl Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1315 Rec’d by: Joe Chiellini, Ameriscape USA Yara North America, Inc. Michelle Casale 100 N Tampa St Tampa, FL 33602 904-923-9595 TREASURE COAST Martinez Industries Gerardo Martinez PO Box 690365 Vero Beach, FL 32969 772-801-0281
Horseman's Landscape, Inc. Chris Horseman 954 NE Pine Island Rd Unit K Cape Coral, FL 33915 239-699-8358 Rec’d by: Matt Fleming, Steele Truck Center, Inc.
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Calendar of Events
Contact Us
See and submit events at http://www.fngla.org, under calendar
FNGLA
July 15-18: Cultivate ‘18, Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH 19-20:
Florida WaterStarTM Training, Ft. Lauderdale
23-28:
Perennial Plant Association Conference, DoubleTree by Hilton Denver, Colorado
28:
Ball Seed Field & Landscape Day, Ball Horticultural Company, West Chicago, Illinois
Phone: 407.295.7994 Toll-free: 800.375.3642 Fax: 407.295.1619 E-mail: info@fngla.org Web: www.fngla.org
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Ben Bolusky
GREENLINE EDITOR Jennifer Nelis, jnelis@fngla.org
August 4-7:
GWA Annual Conference & Expo, Buffalo, NY
10-12:
Nursery/Landscape Expo, Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas, Texas
15-17:
IGC show, Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois
23-25:
FarWest Show, Oregon Convention Center, Portland, Oregon
26:
FNGLA Certification Training, SeaWorld, Orlando
September 6-9:
SAF Palm Beach Annual Convention, The Breakers, Palm Beach
14-16 The Landscape Show, Orange County Convention Center North Concourse, Orlando (includes FNGLA Certification Training Classes)
2017-2018 STATE OFFICERS
President Ed Bravo Big Trees Plantation, Inc. 104 SW 131st St Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 332-2150
President-Elect Will Womack, FCLC Tampa Bay Landscaping 5821 Maple Lane Tampa, FL 33610 (813) 368-9891
Past President Robert Shoelson, FCLC Getting Green Plant Services & Betrock Information Systems PO Box 840107 Pembroke Pines, FL 33084 (954) 680-1819
Secretary/Treasurer Shawn Thomas Southern Green Chemical Lawn Care 9456 Phillips Hwy Ste. 10 Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 598-4358
Connect with us: About FNGLA This publication is produced by the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) as a service to its members and the industry at large. The statements and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Association, its staff, Board of Directors, Greenline or its editors. Likewise, the appearance of advertisers or their identification as members does not constitute an endorsement of the products or featured services. The mission of the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association is to promote and protect the interests of Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.
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Read the latest FNGLA news inside & visit Greenline online at http://greenline.fngla.org