Each year, the Lone Star Hort Forum brings together leaders from across the Texas green industry to step away from day-to-day demands and focus on what matters most: people, leadership, and the future of our businesses.
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This year’s Forum did exactly that — through honest conversations, practical learning, and moments that reminded us why this community matters.

​Day One focused on real-world challenges and tools leaders can take back to their teams right away

We kicked off Day One with a familiar and trusted voice. Charlie Hall, a long-time Lone Star Hort Forum contributor, returned with his annual economic forecast — helping attendees better understand where the industry stands and how to plan for the year ahead with clarity and realism.

​From there, the day moved into sessions that resonated deeply with attendees because they addressed real challenges leaders are navigating right now:

• Practical applications of AI that can actually be used in daily operations
• Workplace safety and preparedness in today’s environment
• Leadership mindset and decision-making under pressure

These sessions weren’t about theory — they were about tools, perspective, and making better decisions back at the office.

​One of the most impactful conversations of Day One took place during the Women in Horticulture session, which focused on how internal triggers affect leadership, communication, and workplace dynamics.

The session explored a simple but powerful concept: our thoughts influence our feelings, which influence our actions — and ultimately our results.

Attendees walked away with practical strategies to:

• Recognize triggers before situations escalate
• Pause and reflect in high-pressure moments
• Approach difficult conversations with curiosity rather than fear
• Lead with greater composure, empathy, and confidence

​It was a thoughtful conversation that extended well beyond the room and reinforced the importance of self-awareness in leadership at every level.
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Live Podcast Recordings — Now Available
Throughout the day, several live podcast conversations were recorded on-site and are now available to listen to at no cost:

• H-2B Updates with Jacob Monty
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=Mk519uW5FLG
• Economic Forecast
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=laGLyc8qTK2
• Top Tips for Talent
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=qzEpeIxwuW9
• D.E.E.D. to Success
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=RDL6kt3jC2m
• How the Green Industry Can Embrace the Unknown
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=wnElnSqgu83
• Employers’ Biggest Legal Mistakes
  https://www.podbean.com/lsw/2Ne3ECGEsEm?lsid=3npGgcMoSJx

Day Two began with the TNLA Awards Festival, where the community came together to recognize peers, celebrate excellence, and honor those who have helped move the industry forward.

​This year’s Festival carried special meaning as we honored Jim Reaves, a former TNLA staff member who passed away in August. Jim was posthumously awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership, recognizing his lasting contributions and the impact he made on the Association and the people within it.

​Several award programs introduced meaningful updates in 2026:

This year marked the introduction of a secret shopper component, adding a new layer of insight and accountability to the judging process and reinforcing the importance of customer experience at every touchpoint.

View all TGRA award winners HERE

The TEIL program continued to evolve, with judges noting a strong field of submissions that showcased:

• Higher-quality storytelling
• Clear before-and-after transformations
• Greater insight into design intent, execution, and results

These updates strengthened the integrity of the program and highlighted the craftsmanship and professionalism across the industry.

​View all TEIL award winners HERE

In the afternoon, attendees headed out on the Industry Tour and the Emerge Tours.

These tours offered behind-the-scenes looks at real operations and real conversations, the kind that don’t happen in a classroom. Discussions on the bus, on-site, and face-to-face allowed participants to learn directly from peers about how they’re solving challenges and running successful businesses.
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A sincere thank you to our tour stop hosts for opening your doors and sharing your time and insight with our members.

​The Forum concluded with the graduation of TNLA Leadership Bootcamp Class V, a milestone that represents months of learning, reflection, and personal growth.

​Leadership Bootcamp is about more than professional development, it’s about building self-aware, confident leaders who are prepared to guide teams, navigate change, and contribute meaningfully to the industry.
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We are proud of this class and grateful for the perspective and energy they bring to the Texas green industry.

​The Forum closed with a forward-looking keynote, “Smarter, Faster, Stronger: How AI Can Future-Proof Your Nursery & Landscape Business,” reinforcing the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and thoughtful adoption of new tools.

Lone Star Hort Forum isn’t about checking a box or attending another event. It’s about creating space — space to listen, reflect, learn from peers, and reconnect with why we do this work.

Seeing the community show up for one another — in conversations, in recognition, and in shared experiences — is always why we do what we do.
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Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make Lone Star Hort Forum 2026 meaningful.

​At TNLA, leadership development isn’t just a benefit—it’s an investment in the future of Texas’ green industry. Through the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp, presented by the TNLA Foundation, professionals from across the state gain the tools, confidence, and connections needed to lead effectively in today’s evolving business environment.

This week, TNLA Leadership Bootcamp Class V gathered in Dallas for their third session, combining in-depth education with real-world learning experiences.
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The session began with a full-day education program focused on Communication Mastery: Speak, Listen, Influence, led by instructor Dee Maddox. Participants explored how clear communication strengthens teams, improves workplace culture, and drives better business outcomes—skills every leader needs, regardless of role or company size

The class also participated in guided tours that connected leadership concepts to real-life operations:

• A behind-the-scenes look at Omni Dallas Hotel, hosted by the Omni’s Top Management , highlighting leadership and culture in a large-scale hospitality operation.
• A visit to SuperScapes with Craig Duttarer, offering insight into leadership, operations, and growth within the Texas Green Industry. 

​These experiences are a hallmark of the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp—bridging classroom learning with practical application.

Class V is now approaching the finish line. Their final session and graduation will take place during the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum, and all members are encouraged to register and attend to celebrate their achievements and see firsthand the impact of this program.

Why Apply for the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp?
Participants leave the program with:

• Stronger communication and leadership skills
• Greater confidence in managing teams and challenges
• A powerful peer network across the Texas green industry
• Practical tools they can immediately apply to their businesses

If you have emerging leaders—or are ready to grow as one yourself—the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp is a proven pathway to success.
Applications are now open for the next class please reach out to [email protected] for more info or questions

Register for the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum and join us for the Class V graduation: https://www.tnlaonline.org/lone-star-hort-forum.html

A special thanks to our Key Contributing Partner

• Landmark Nurseries, Inc.

Thank you to our Sponsors for making this happen:

• Southwest Wholesale Nursery
• Aquaterra Outdoors
• Lone Star Trees
• Billy Long Enterprises, Inc.
• Hotchkiss Insurance Agency

Partner:

• GO TEXAN

👉 Learn more, apply: https://www.tnlaonline.org/leadershipbootcamp.html

This year, TNLA turns 25—and we’re feeling all the pride, gratitude, and excitement that comes with a milestone like this. For 25 years, we’ve grown together, advocated together, and built something bigger than any one of us.
And none of it would be possible without you—our members.

So as we wrap up our fiscal year and head into the end of membership renewal season, we wanted to say thank you… and remind you of everything that comes with being part of TNLA

Did You Know Your Membership Includes All This?

💼 Advocacy That Protects Your Business
From water restrictions to workforce rules, TNLA is your voice at the Capitol. This year alone, dozens of members cited legislative updates as one of their top-valued benefits.

🤝 Connections That Stick
Members consistently name Expo and networking events as their favorite part of TNLA. Whether you're new or a longtime member, you’ve probably made at least one lifelong friend at Expo.

📣 Communication You Can Count On
We know things move fast. That’s why we keep you in the loop with timely updates, member alerts, and resources. Coming Soon! A news app--so you never have to wonder what’s going on in your industry & stay connected- anywhere, anytime!

🎓 Education That Pays for Itself
Need CEUs? Want to develop your next leader? From Leadership Bootcamp to certification programs, your membership opens doors to growth—for you and your team.

📬 Tools to Hire Smarter
You asked for better recruiting help—and we’re delivering. Coming Soon!! A new mobile-friendly job board! Making it easier than ever to find the right fit.

📢 A Community That Cares
Did you know members rated TNLA’s overall value at 4 out of 5? We’re proud of that—and always striving to make it a 5.
Our fiscal year ends June 30, so now’s the time to lock in your benefits for another year of growth, connection, and progress.
​
Because after all—we’re not just celebrating 25 years of TNLA…
We’re celebrating 25 years of serving YOU.
 
Renew Your Membership Now by visiting: https://www.tnlaonline.org/renew-now.html

The Texas Legislature is nearing the end of its 140-day regular session, with the end of session set for June 2, 2025. While that marks the formal close of business, the Governor retains the authority to call lawmakers back into special session at any time, for any reason. Below is an update on key developments at the State Capitol—and a look at our efforts on the federal front.


Protecting Professional Standards: TNLA Helps Stop Risky Licensing Loophole
Senate Bill 2702 failed to pass this session—thanks in large part to TNLA and our licensed irrigator members. The bill would have allowed out-of-state education credentials to substitute for Texas-specific licensing requirements, such as the 40-hour course required before taking the Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) exam.
While well-intentioned, it posed serious risks:

• Could undermine public health and water quality
• Weaken credibility of Texas licensing systems used by irrigators, landscape architects, and more

TNLA acted early, working with lawmakers and partners to highlight long-term consequences. By defeating this bill, we helped preserve the integrity of Texas licensure standards and the trust communities place in our professionals.


Big News for the Texas Green Industry: Plant Disease and Pest Alert System Headed to Governor’s Desk
A major win—TNLA’s plant disease and pest email alert bill has passed both chambers and is on its way to the Governor.
The bill establishes a voluntary, opt-in email alert system, administered by Texas A&M AgriLife, to notify professionals, agencies, and the public when pests or plant diseases are detected and move across our state.
Benefits include:

• Faster response times
• Reduced damage
• Stronger protection for Texas horticulture, landscapes, and ecosystems

This system will boost industry resilience and protect the health of our green infrastructure.
Special thanks to Rep. Mihaela Plesa for authoring the bill and to Bill Carson (Native Texas Nursery) for testifying in committee.


TNLA Went to Washington #SaveH2B
On May 20, TNLA sent five members to Washington, D.C. for the annual H-2B Fly-In, hosted by NALP and FEWA. Alongside 80+ leaders from 25 states, our group met with 125 Congressional offices, including key Texans.
They shared how the H-2B visa program supports:

• Seasonal business needs
• Local economies
• A reliable, returning workforce

We also raised concerns about the H-2A program and broader labor challenges. These conversations highlighted the need for permanent H-2B cap relief to protect workforce stability across the green industry.


Trump White House Releases Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment
On May 22, the Trump Administration released the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, initiated by executive order. The report addresses the alarming rise in childhood chronic illness and identifies four main drivers:

• Poor diet (especially ultra-processed foods)
• Chemical and environmental exposure
• Sedentary, screen-heavy lifestyles
• Overuse of pharmaceuticals

It calls for major reforms in food systems, public health research, and environmental regulations.

Why it matters for TNLA:
The report highlights risks related to pesticide exposure and degraded outdoor environments—areas TNLA works to improve. It also criticizes weak federal oversight influenced by corporate lobbying, especially in agriculture and chemical safety. Importantly, it advocates for restoring access to clean, green spaces—an area where landscape professionals and growers play a key role. TNLA members are part of the solution through sustainable practices, healthy landscapes, and promoting environmental stewardship. 
🔗 Read the full report here: whitehouse.gov/maha

FREE Webinar: Stay Compliant & Avoid I-9 Audits
Thursday, June 12, 2025
🕐 12:30 PM
I-9 audits are increasing across the country—and for many businesses, one misstep could mean costly consequences. TNLA is teaming up with legal expert Jacob Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP to bring you a can’t-miss compliance webinar:
“Steps Employers Can Take to Avoid I-9 Audits and Stay Compliant.”
🔍 Topics include:

• Identity theft & the Innocent Bystander Act
• How to handle identity confessions
• SSA no-match notices
• Practical tips to reduce audit risks

👉 Register Now to protect your business and get ahead of the curve.

June 2, 2025 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Location:  In the Horticulture/Forest Science Building: 495 Horticulture Rd, College Station, TX 77843  
Who Should Attend: Anyone interested in horticulture-related careers

Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply curious about horticulture, this event at Texas A&M offers a closer look into degree programs and careers in plant science. Attendees will explore everything from floral design and plant genetics to controlled environment horticulture—and meet with current students and faculty along the way

We’re excited to share not one, but two upcoming Women in Horticulture gatherings—each with its own focus and purpose. Here’s what you need to know so you don’t miss out:

🌼 TNLA Women in Hort Virtual Meeting Hosted by TNLA (Statewide)
📅 Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 🕙 10:00 AM | 💻 Virtual

​Join women across Texas in this virtual statewide event featuring guest speaker Jennifer Hatalski, TCNP of Calloway’s Nursery. This is a great chance to gain professional insight, ask questions, and feel inspired by other women in the industry—no matter where you're located.

​🪴 Pro Tip: You’re welcome to attend both! One connects you statewide, the other strengthens your local network. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, there’s something for everyone.

​🌿 Region VIII – In-Person Women in Hort Gathering
​Hosted by TNLA Region VIII (Central Texas Only)
📅 Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 🕓 4:00–8:00 PM
📍 Bear Creek Retreat, 13813 Carpenter Ln, Manchaca, TX 78652

This in-person gathering is exclusively for women in TNLA’s Region VIII, including Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding areas. It’s all about building local connections, swapping knowledge, and supporting one another in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
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RSVP to:[email protected] 

July 24–25, 2025
Hosted Online
Calling all landscape architects and designers! The Outdoor Learning Environment (OLE!) Texas program is offering a two-day virtual seminar to train professionals on how to support nature-based outdoor spaces for early childhood education programs.
💸 Scholarships available to cover the $1,000 course fee—apply today!

• July 24: 1 PM – 5 PM
• July 25: 9 AM – 5 PM

​👏 What TNLA is Doing
From leading I-9 compliance efforts to promoting professional development opportunities like Women in Hort, TNLA is committed to connecting you with the resources that matter most. We advocate, we educate, and we cultivate a stronger green industry—together.
Stay tuned for more upcoming events, and make sure you’re following us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates!

In today’s fast-paced Green Industry, having strong, adaptable leaders is essential for long-term business success. But leadership isn’t something that just happens—it’s developed, refined, and strengthened over time. That’s where TNLA Leadership Bootcamp comes in.

This exclusive, industry-specific leadership development program is designed to equip professionals with the practical skills, confidence, and industry connections they need to grow into effective managers and future leaders.

Why Enroll One of Your Employees?
​Investing in leadership training isn’t just about developing an individual—it’s about strengthening your entire business. Here’s how sending a team member to TNLA Leadership Bootcamp can benefit your company:
✅ Build Stronger Leaders – Develop confident, capable employees who can take initiative, manage teams, and solve problems effectively.

​✅ Increase Employee Retention – Employees who feel valued and invested in are more likely to stay, reducing turnover and increasing loyalty.

​✅ Gain Immediate Business Impact – Participants don’t just learn theory—they get real-world strategies they can implement immediately to improve operations and team dynamics.

​✅ Expand Your Network – Through roundtable discussions, facility tours, and one-on-one mentorship, participants build valuable connections with industry leaders.

​✅ Future-Proof Your Business – A strong leadership pipeline ensures your business is prepared for growth, succession planning, and industry changes.

What Participants Will Experience
The four-part program (August 2025 – January 2026) includes:
📍 32+ Hours of Leadership Training – Hands-on education to build management and leadership skills.
📍 10+ Hours of Exclusive Facility Tours – Firsthand insights into successful operations.
📍 One-on-One Mentorship – Guidance from experienced industry professionals.
📍 Self-Assessment & Personal Development – Helping participants understand their leadership style.
📍 Complimentary Registration – To TNLA’s 2025 Nursery/Landscape EXPO (San Antonio) and 2026 Lone Star Hort Forum (Grapevine).
Session Schedule

• Session 1: August 6, 2025 – EXPO, San Antonio, TX
• Session 2: October 20-21, 2025 – Houston, TX (Tour & In-Person Education)
• Session 3: December 8-9, 2025 – TBD (Tour & In-Person Education)
• Session 4: January 5-6, 2026 – Grapevine, TX (Education & Tour)

Limited Spots Available – Apply Today!
With only 20 seats available, this program fills up fast. The member rate of $1,000 is available until June 11, 2025.
📩 Apply Now: Application Link
Learn More: TNLA Leadership Bootcamp
Questions? Contact Sarah Riggins: [email protected]

Congratulations to the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp Class IV of 2024-2025

1. The Power of Collaboration
​The forum showcased the immense value of collaboration. Attendees had the chance to connect with peers, sponsors, and exhibitors while engaging in meaningful discussions about industry challenges and opportunities. Seeing online collaborators come together in person was a testament to the strength of the TNLA community and its commitment to shared success.

​2. Celebrating Industry Leadership and Innovation
This year’s event featured a special moment with the graduation of the Leadership Bootcamp Class, a program spearheaded by the TNLA Foundation. This initiative highlights TNLA's dedication to cultivating future leaders who will shape the Texas green industry. The ceremony inspired all attendees and reinforced the importance of investing in professional growth.

3. Celebrating Excellence at the Awards Festival
The hard work of our presenters and planning team truly paid off during the Awards Festival, which was a standout moment of the event. Recognizing the achievements of individuals and businesses in the industry reminded us all why we’re passionate about horticulture. It was inspiring to see the pride and enthusiasm from award recipients and attendees alike.

4. Exploring the Industry Through Tours
​The Forum also included exclusive industry tours, offering attendees a firsthand look at innovative practices and operations within the green industry & beyond. These tours provided a unique opportunity to see cutting-edge techniques in action, network with industry leaders, and gain insights to bring back to their businesses. Attendees consistently praised the tours for their practical value and the inspiration they provided

​5. Trends and Insights for the Future
The forum featured impactful sessions and panels that explored key trends and insights shaping the future of horticulture, including sustainable practices, workforce challenges, and innovative technologies. These sessions provided attendees with actionable takeaways to implement in their businesses, helping them stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. The collaborative discussions and diverse perspectives showcased the strength and expertise of the TNLA community.

Resources
The Lone Star Hort Forum also included a live podcast recording of the TNLA Green Report Podcast, Season 4, Episode 3, titled "Navigating the Texas Green Industry's H-2A and H-2B Immigration Work Program." Moderated by Curtis Smith (TNLA) and featuring expert panelists Devin Guinn and Antonio Vergara, the session covered:

Challenges and opportunities with H-2A and H-2B work programs.
Practical advice for navigating regulations and securing reliable labor.
Sponsored by Forward.us, the podcast is a must-listen for professionals seeking workforce sustainability solutions.
Listen to the Podcast:
👉 Full Episode HERE
The closing keynote, "Decision FAIL: Top Business Decision Making Mistakes (and How Smart Leaders Avoid Them)," by Brett Hoogeveen of BetterCulture, captivated attendees. Brett shared actionable strategies like the "360 Rule" and "Pre-Mortem" exercises, offering practical tools for improving decision-making and avoiding common pitfalls in leadership. You can download his slide deck HERE

Looking Ahead
The Lone Star Hort Forum 2025 was a celebration of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. From the TNLA Foundation’s leadership initiatives to the keynote, industry tours, and networking opportunities, the event reinforced the importance of working together to advance the green industry.

We’re grateful to everyone who attended, presented, and supported this year’s Lone Star Hort Forum. Your participation drives the success of our community, and we can’t wait to see how these experiences shape the future.

What was your favorite moment from the forum? Share your thoughts in the comments below or reach out to us—we’d love to hear from you!

Recently, the TNLA Foundation Chair, Bill Carson with Native Texas Nursery, had the opportunity to sit down with Amy Graham, President and CEO of the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA), to discuss the incredible work of the TNLA Foundation. Their conversation sheds light on the Foundation’s mission, its impact on the industry, and how you can get involved in shaping the future of horticulture.