On September 24th, TNLA hosted a full-day Water Summit in Pflugerville, Texas, addressing the state's pressing water challenges. The event brought together a diverse group of TNLA members, including growers, garden centers, landscapers, irrigators, and academics, all united to tackle Texas' water crisis.

The summit started with presentations from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and community garden experts. They shared insights on cutting-edge irrigation technologies, best management practices, soil health innovations, turfgrass management, and sustainable landscaping using water-efficient plants.

​At lunch, Texas Senator Charles Perry (R-Lubbock), Chair of the Senate Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Committee, spoke about his upcoming state water plan for the 89th Legislative Session. His proposal includes using $5 billion from the Economic Stabilization Fund to develop new water sources, plus an additional $1 billion annually for future water projects. Potential solutions include brackish and ocean desalination and possibly purchasing water from other states. These measures are critical as Texas faces a projected 73% population growth by 2070, alongside an 18% decline in current water supplies.

​In the afternoon, attendees broke into small groups to discuss state water restrictions and water-saving strategies. The TNLA board will review the ideas generated for future initiatives.

​We sincerely thank all participants for their contributions to this vital conversation. Their engagement was crucial in shaping the summit’s discussions, and TNLA remains dedicated to finding innovative solutions to safeguard Texas' water resources.

Kim Cabrera, TNLA's Marketing Manager, recently had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Monsur, an expert in Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and 360-degree experiences, and a pioneer in integrating these technologies into the field of landscape architecture. His innovative work with VR in landscape design is not only transforming how we think about outdoor spaces but also inspiring a new generation of landscape architects. In this feature, Dr. Monsur will also share his insights into his groundbreaking research and how his graduate students are pushing the boundaries of design through technology & again about being at the West Texas Workshop happening in Lubbock, TX on Oct 2-3, 2024.

At Texas Tech University, Dr. Monsur’s XR Lab is a hub for cutting-edge research and education. His team of graduate students is pushing the boundaries of landscape architecture by incorporating immersive technologies into their design processes. From using VR to simulate plant growth in real-time to AR tools that overlay design concepts onto existing spaces, the lab is providing students with hands-on experience in blending technology and nature. These tools are not only enhancing their ability to visualize and test landscapes, but they’re also helping them communicate complex design ideas to clients and stakeholders more effectively.

For educators, XR is proving to be a powerful teaching tool. Instructors are using VR to conduct virtual site tours, allowing students to explore diverse landscapes without ever leaving the classroom. These immersive experiences give students the chance to engage with their designs on a deeper level, fostering creativity and practical understanding. Teachers can also use AR to demonstrate how different plants and materials interact within a landscape, bringing textbooks to life in a dynamic, interactive way.

Despite the advanced nature of the technology, Dr. Monsur emphasizes that XR is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible for all ages—including those who may not consider themselves tech-savvy. With easy-to-navigate VR environments and intuitive AR tools, even those new to technology can benefit from this innovative approach to landscape design. This accessibility makes XR a valuable tool not only for today’s professionals but also for mentoring future generations.
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Dr. Monsur's vision is clear: by embracing XR, the landscape architecture industry can become more innovative, engaging, and inclusive. With students, teachers, and professionals alike exploring these tools, the green industry is positioned to lead the way into a future where technology enhances sustainable design.

More Information:
You can email him at [email protected] for more information on how to get involved, how to use this new technology and to schedule a meet up at the West Texas Workshop. 
To Register for the West Texas Workshop please click HERE
Download his PowerPoint XR Lab Presentation LINK
Read more about Monsur and his team through an article in LAM, click this LINK
To view the San Antonio Will Smith Zoo School Playground click this LINK

Get ready for an incredible learning experience at the West Texas Workshop, taking place October 2-3, 2024, in Lubbock, TX. Hosted at Texas Tech University, this workshop is an excellent opportunity to tour the Horticulture Gardens and Greenhouse Complex and explore the latest Texas Superstar Plant Trial Research.

What to Expect:
​During the workshop, attendees will gain valuable insights from horticulture experts and participate in over 4 hours of Water Wise Education, earning TNLA CEUs. The event also offers numerous networking opportunities, with social gatherings and receptions designed to foster idea exchange among industry professionals.

Special Highlights:
On October 2nd, join us for a welcome reception to kickstart the event. On October 3rd, delve into water-wise education and enjoy an exclusive tour of Texas Tech University’s gardens. A special guest speaker, Texas State Senator Charles Perry, Chair of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs, will also be presenting.
Registration Details:
Register now for just $175 for members and $200 for non-members. This fee includes access to all educational sessions, the welcome reception, and a complimentary lunch. Need accommodations? Stay at the DoubleTree for $129 per night. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your knowledge and connect with industry leaders in West Texas!

​Register by visiting: https://www.tnlaonline.org/westtxworkshop.html and click HERE for hotel accommodations 

This is your chance to take time with your crew to head out to West Texas to explore cutting-edge advancements in water-saving technology and landscapes featuring drought-resistant plants. 

​For additional information, contact Tricia Smith at [email protected] or call 512-579-3853.
Sponsorships Available
Sponsorships are available. For Questions Contact Allison Berry at [email protected]
 
 Thank you to this Years Sponsors:Southwest Wholesale Nursery
Wolfe Nursery Direct
Texas Tech University
Environmental Landscape Solutions
Back To Nature
Amarillo Land Services
SiteOne Landscape Supply

We congratulate Calloway's Nursery on receiving the coveted Texas Treasure Business Award from the Texas Historical Commission. This prestigious award recognizes Texas businesses that have been operating for over 50 years and have made exceptional historical contributions to the state's economic growth and prosperity.

Founded
Frank Cornelius Sr. in 1938, Cornelius Nursery has a storied legacy. As one of the pioneers in selling container plants, the family-owned and -operated nursery began as a supplier to landscapers and retail nurseries. In 1986, Sterling Cornelius played a pivotal role in assisting the founders of Calloway's Nursery with their business plan and store model. Upon his retirement, Calloway's Nursery acquired Cornelius Nursery in 1999.

Words from CEO
"This award pays tribute to the incredible legacy built by the Cornelius family that carries on to this day, and we are honored to be recognized by the State of Texas," said Marce Ward, CEO of Calloway's Nursery. "From annual Christmas tree selections to assisting former First Lady Barbara Bush in her garden, our team cherishes the countless memories made here in Houston and beyond. We're committed to preserving and creating more treasured moments for years to come."

Did You Know? Calloway's Nursery has also been honored with several prestigious awards from the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA):

• Summit Award: The highest honor bestowed by TNLA, recognizing a member company that has made significant, exceptional contributions to TNLA and member businesses.
• ARP Awards: Three of their outstanding employees—Sam Weger, John Peters, and Jim Estill—have received the ARP Award. Named after the Arp Rose Nursery Company, this award honors individual professionals for their outstanding contributions to the industry. Notably, Sam Weger and John Peters have also served as TNLA Chairmen.

​Cornelius Nursery’s rich history of innovation and excellence continues to set a high standard in our industry. We proudly celebrate their achievements and look forward to their continued success and contributions. Congratulations, Cornelius Nursery, on this well-deserved recognition!