EDUCATE NURTURE
TOPICS, TALENT, FUNDING…
SHOW ME THE MONEY! DEVELOPMENTS AND RESEARCH IN ACADEMIC CIRCLES WITH FLORIDA GROWER JOHN CONROY
Meaningful research done by universities for the green industry hinges on several key factors:
WITH
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
JOHN CONROY
Success in business and life depends on many variables. Some we control, some we do not. Those that we have a greater measure of control over are called choices. Desirable ends are impacted by prudent choices based on the application of accurate information relevant to the path to success. Research has been essential in establishing foundations for action and providing pathways for advancement. I love predictable outcomes … enter research.
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Issues worthy of research are clearly identified and aligned with industry needs
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Funding is secured
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Personnel is sourced and/or assigned
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The effective dissemination of findings
Jack Rechcigl and Jeb Fields are two leaders in the green industry that were kind enough to share their thoughts with us on these important that impact the industry and many of us directly.
Pro Landscaper USA South January/February 2022
John: Where do research topics come from? Jack: Most of the time, research topics that faculty work on come directly from our growers. Our faculty try to work on relevant issues facing the agricultural industry. It is important for our research faculty to work cooperatively with the people who have real world issues and targeted concerns. The process is best served by our faculty making site visits and keeping lines of communication open with growers and others in the industry. We also partner with various agricultural organizations to stay informed on critical issues they are facing. We have advisory committees made up of leaders from the various agricultural commodity groups, as well as government officials that help ensure we are working on relevant research issues facing the growers. Jeb: I’m an extension specialist for the nursery industry so I get most of my ideas from growers. I like to keep my finger on the pulse, so I go visit them and attend their meetings and listen. I try to keep a balance between what I really want to do and how it can help the industry. If it’s not helping the growers and is not helping to better the industry, then what’s the point of being here, especially being in extension. I must keep that passion for what I do, so I think finding a good
south.prolandscaperusa.com
