President's Message

Happy 2023

It is a most wonderful time of the year. Nothing gives me spring fever like those first blooms and buds we’re starting to see. As you read this, I am confident your business has already kicked into full swing. It is a great time of year!

It was terrific to see so many members at MANTS. The show floor was buzzing with energy. Exhibitor and attendee numbers were back up to 2019 levels. It is always an extraordinary show. The enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment to our green industry is inspiring!

At the recent member breakfast meeting, we added two new Board members, Tye Saunders with Saunders Brothers and Cameron Stanley with The Gardener Nursery. We are excited about the ideas and energy they both bring to the table. Welcome gentlemen, we look forward to you adding to the strength and knowledge of the Board!

During the member breakfast meeting, we were also fortunate to hear valuable updates from guests:

Emily Robbins – Virginia Asset Group – President

Sara Neagu-Reed – AmericanHort – Director, Advocacy and Government Affairs

Cliff Williamson – Virginia Agribusiness Council – Executive Director

Megan Wright – másLabor – Director, Industry Relations

Mike Evans – Virginia Tech School of Plant and Environmental Science – Director and Professor

Many thanks to all of you for taking the time to join us and share your expertise and helpful information!

Seana Ankers, with Meadows Farms Nurseries & Landscape, wrapped up her role as immediate past VNLA president. However, she has graciously decided to stay involved a bit longer as a mentor to the next legislative chairperson. She is also assisting with Field Day 2023 at Virginia Tech’s Hahn Horticulture Garden. Save-the-Date: August 3 – 4. Seana, thank you for your many years of service to the VNLA!

Speaking of Field Day, preparation is underway. Jeff Howe, Seana Ankers, Robin McCall and Matt Deivert are planning a great first day to include educational components, panel discussions and demonstrations. Additionally, a second day of nursery tours and landscape operations. Stay tuned for more info.

Some of our Board members attended the Virginia Agribusiness Council’s Annual Legislative Appreciation Banquet. The event included remarks from Governor Youngkin and others. The VNLA appreciates the Virginia Agribusiness Council and the strong partnership on the legislative front.

The Board is excited to initiate a project to update our Virginia Certified Horticulturist (VCH) manual. We understand this may be a lengthy process and we look forward to partnering with subject matter experts to produce a VCH study manual that is best in class.

I hope each and every one of our friends in the industry has a super and successful spring season. I don’t know about you, but July 4 celebrations cannot get here soon enough.

Sincerely,

Chris Dowdy

VNLA President

Save the Date for the VNLA Field Day on August 3 and 4, 2023 at Hahn Horticulture Garden at Virginia Tech. More details to come!

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New Address for VNLA – 9702 Gayton Road, Suite 163 • Henrico, VA 23238

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