President’s Message

The Did you know?

The VTC Environmental Institute has several great training/ education / networking opportunities this fall/winter season. Like many of you, this used to be our “slow’’ time! (Now days if you are good at what you do there is no such thing as slow time.)

That’s why it’s important to schedule ahead now and make plans to attend the annual Come to the Bay conference in Virginia Beach this January 28–30, 2025. Once again, we will be at the Virginia Tech Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center. We are very fortunate to be able to use the facilities and resources and showcase the importance of the world class research and education they provide.

Reminder: there are still wonderful sponsorships available, don’t miss out , call today or go on-line to become a sponsor.

The theme this year is Partnerships. We are highlighting the many successful partners we have developed relationships with and the many new relationships we are building.

Previous, and current, sponsors include:

• Agronomic Lawn Management

• City of Virginia Beach

• Elizabeth River Project

• Lawns and Gardens Plus

• McGill Environmental Systems

• Sandy’s Plants, Inc.

• TruGreen

• Weed Man

• VTC Environmental Institute

These sponsors, our partners, bring their perspectives and knowledge to our event and help us with our continuing success. Together we elevate the importance of the industry and improve our professionalism.

Come to the Bay topics offered will benefit everyone in the industry. They include Pesticide training & re-certification (free to members, don’t delay, pay your dues today); two day Horticultural Short Course (which will feature hands-on demonstrations); soils and their importance to success; protecting our waters; partnering with environmental groups; what to do when you have too many native pollinator plants; how to develop partnerships that benefit all and much more.

This year our Service Project is being held two weeks prior (January 13) to Come to the Bay so that we can involve students in the Virginia Beach Career & Technical Center and Environmental Studies curriculums. Why two weeks earlier? Because of school testing schedules; exam schedules prevent students from participating during the conference. Their enthusiasm and interest are critical to the successful implementation of the projects.

I look forward to reconnecting and networking with other industry professionals at Come to the Bay. Don’t miss this great opportunity.

Finally, plan on attending the annual three- day Horticultural Short Course in Henrico from December 3-5 (TuesdyThursday) and take advantage of the On-line pesticide recertification classes that are free to members. Allow me to be blunt - pay your dues, attend our industry events, and check with your accountant or financial advisor and determine how generous a sponsor you can be.

We look forward to seeing you!

Wes Bray

VTC President