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Congress is currently working on the next Farm Bill, and decisions being made right now will directly impact Texas nursery and landscape businesses. TNLA members are encouraged to take five minutes to contact their Members of Congress and urge support for the Farm Bill and its specialty crop provisions. Just last month, TNLA provided a full breakdown of the Farm Bill and what it means for horticulture and specialty crops. Now, as the bill moves forward in Congress, it’s time to take action. Lawmakers need to hear directly from the businesses affected by these policies. Your voice helps ensure the green industry is represented as this legislation moves forward. The Background: Why the Farm Bill Matters The Farm Bill is the primary piece of legislation that shapes federal agricultural policy in the United States. While it is often associated with traditional row crops, the Farm Bill has become increasingly important for specialty crops, including nursery and greenhouse production, as well as the broader green industry. It has been nearly a decade since Congress passed a full Farm Bill. During that time, the industry has operated under short-term extensions while facing historic challenges, including freezes, drought, labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and rising input costs. The current proposal, known as the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, represents the first major opportunity in years to update policies that directly affect our industry. How It Affects the Green Industry The Farm Bill includes several provisions that impact the green industry supply chain: from growers to landscapers to suppliers. Stronger Risk Management Tools Improvements to specialty crop insurance help address long-standing gaps compared to traditional agriculture, providing better protection against weather-related losses. Improved Disaster Assistance Updates to programs like the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) improve how quickly and effectively growers can recover from losses, with added flexibility for replanting. A Permanent Emergency Assistance Framework The bill establishes a standing framework for specialty crop disaster assistance, providing more predictability instead of relying on ad hoc relief. Water & Conservation Programs Expanded conservation programs support irrigation efficiency and water stewardship, helping offset costs for implementing water-saving practices. Research, Grants & Innovation Farm Bill funding supports research, extension services, and grant programs that improve pest management, develop resilient plant varieties, advance automation, and expand market opportunities. In Texas, many of these programs are delivered through university and extension partnerships that directly impact day-to-day operations for green industry businesses. Why This Matters Now The green industry plays a significant role in Texas’s economy, but it faces unique challenges that require policies tailored to specialty crops. This Farm Bill represents meaningful progress in addressing those needs: strengthening risk management, improving disaster response, supporting water efficiency, and investing in long-term innovation. As Congress continues to debate the legislation, it is important that policymakers understand the role and needs of our industry. TNLA Working for You The Texas Nursery & Landscape Association is actively engaged in monitoring the Farm Bill and advocating for policies that support specialty crops and the green industry. Through coordination with national partners and direct engagement with policymakers, TNLA is working to ensure our industry’s voice is heard. Bottom Line The Farm Bill is a critical opportunity to strengthen the long-term stability and competitiveness of the green industry. But advocacy matters. Your participation helps ensure the green industry is represented in federal policy decisions that affect our future.
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As Easter arrives, so does a season of growth, hope, and reflection—values deeply rooted in the mission of the TNLA Foundation. This season, we’re celebrating both the purpose behind our work and the people who represent its impact—like the 2025 TNLA Foundation Scholarship Recipients. These outstanding students are the next generation of horticulture professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs. With a passion for plants and a drive to make a difference, they represent the future we believe in—and the one we’re building together. Our work doesn’t stop there, the TNLA Foundation has proudly: 🌿 Awarded over $1.1 million in scholarships to students pursuing careers in horticulture and related fields 📚 Funded over $75,000 in research to support innovation, sustainability, and best practices across the industry 💼 Trained more than 50 professionals through the TNLA Leadership Bootcamp, building strong, informed leaders for tomorrow This Easter, as landscapes bloom and communities grow, we’re reminded of the power of planting something meaningful—be it a seed, an idea, or a dream. 🎓 Meet the 2025 TNLA Foundation Scholarship WinnersRecognized for their dedication, academic excellence, and passion for the Green Industry:
💚 Help Us Keep Growing Whether through mentorship, donations, or simply sharing our story, your support helps plant the seeds for a greener, stronger future. Learn more or donate at TNLAonline.org » From all of us at the TNLA Foundation--Happy Easter. May your season be filled with renewal, purpose, and plenty of blooms. 🌼  Last week, the Ellison Chair Advisory Committee, led by Dr. Charlie Hall of Texas A&M University, convened in College Station, TX, to further discussions on the long-term Plants, Nature, and Health Initiative, which was introduced last year. Over 20 speakers contributed, emphasizing the crucial role that plants and nature play in recovery settings, hospitals, child development, and inspiring future careers in the green industry. The committee had the unique opportunity to meet with Grammy-nominated musician Lynn Vartan, Associate Professor of Music-Percussion at the College of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts. Vartan, collaborating with other Texas A&M experts, is exploring how music and dance can be incorporated into garden spaces to enhance both human experiences and plant growth. The committee aims to apply this research to the Texas Green Industry, helping businesses develop long-term strategies to meet the growing demand for stress relief and recovery through nature. Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to shape a greener, healthier future.
 The TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum (LSHF) is back, and it's bigger and better than ever! Taking place from January 6-8, 2025, this event is the perfect opportunity for horticulture professionals to learn, network, and grow. Hosted in beautiful Grapevine, Texas, the Lone Star Hort Forum brings together experts, innovators, and enthusiasts from across the state to explore the latest trends, research, and technology in the industry. At LSHF, you can attend various educational sessions covering business development, sustainability, and the newest plant innovations. These sessions are designed to provide actionable insights and strategies that you can apply directly to your business. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, there's something for everyone.  In addition to the educational opportunities, the Lone Star Hort Forum is a fantastic place to network. Meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build relationships that can help you grow your business. The connections you make here could be the key to your next big opportunity. We also offer immersive tours that you can partake in! What to expect:
 Celebrate the best of the Texas Green Industry at our Awards Festival! Applications to be recognized as the top Garden Retailer or Landscaping Company are now open! Please click HERE for the Texas Excellence in Landscaping Awards & HERE for Texas Garden Retailer Awards  Don't miss out on this incredible event! Register now to secure your spot at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, make valuable connections, or just be inspired by the beauty and innovation of Texas horticulture, this event is for you. We can't wait to see you there!
Register today to be part of an experience that celebrates the best of Texas horticulture and empowers you to take your business to the next level. Click here to register, to view the schedule of events and for more information visit -> https://www.tnlaonline.org/tnla-lone-star-hort-forum.html |
AuthorKim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager Archives
May 2026
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