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TNLA is thrilled to introduce our new "Working for You" Blog!
Stay updated on member events and news that impact the TNLA community. In addition, check out our Green Matters Weekly Newsletter for industry news |
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 Last week, TNLA hosted a webinar with Jeremy Mazur, one of Texas’ leading voices on water policy, to examine how Proposition 4 and other statewide initiatives could shape the future of our state’s water supply, conservation, and infrastructure. Proposition 4—on the ballot this November—would dedicate $1 billion per year from existing sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund producing up to $20 billion of new funding over the next 20 years.
Jeremy emphasized that while new funding tools are essential, Texas’ long-term water security will ultimately depend on sustained infrastructure investment and close collaboration among utilities, landscapers, growers, and irrigators. He highlighted the role TNLA members already play in leading the way—designing sustainable landscapes, advancing efficient irrigation practices, and advocating for balanced policies that promote both conservation and customer choice. 📺 Watch the full webinar here: https://youtu.be/lq-BuOC35qY 🎧 Listen to the full conversation here: https://tinyurl.com/bdfv6buk We’ve heard your feedback--webinars are in high demand. More and more TNLA members have asked for access to past sessions, and we’re happy to say: they’re now available on-demand.
Whether you missed a session or want to revisit one with your team, you can now log in at your convenience and gain valuable insights from top experts in the green industry. Simply visit: https://www.pathlms.com/tnla/courses/40432 Use your TNLA Member ID to log in. Need help? Contact: [email protected] ✅ Available Webinars: 💼 Financial Literacy – What You Need to Know! Speaker: Lyndi Sanders Learn how to build a strong business plan, manage essential financial documents, and work with lenders to grow your ag business. 👉 Watch Now 🌎 Know the Facts: H-2A and H-2B Guest Worker Programs Speaker: Arnulfo Hinojosa, Federation of Employers & Workers of America Understand compliance requirements, worker recruitment, and what’s happening with reform efforts in D.C. 👉 Watch Now 🔐 Steps Employers Can Take to Avoid I-9 Audits Speaker: Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez LLP Covers identity theft, SSA no-match letters, and compliance steps to avoid costly penalties. 👉 Watch Now 🌪️ Federal Crop Insurance – Hurricane & Tropical Storm Coverage Speaker: Jeff Vanlandingham, Tarpon Blue Insurance Advisors Get the facts on how indemnities are paid, policy timing, and how NOAA data affects payout eligibility. 👉 Watch Now We know how important it is to stay informed, especially when time is limited. These webinars are designed to deliver value--no matter your role in the green industry. 📅 More webinars are on the way—so stay tuned, and thank you for continuing to grow with TNLA. FREE Webinar: Stay Compliant & Avoid I-9 AuditsThursday, 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:
Horticulture Exploration Day – Texas A&MJune 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 🪴 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.  Women in Horticulture Events – Two Unique Opportunities to ConnectWe’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.  🌿 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. RSVP to:[email protected]  OLE! Texas – Virtual Designer Training SeminarJuly 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!
 👏 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 this quick video update, we share how TNLA is investing in the next generation of green industry professionals—from hands-on programs to strategic partnerships. Discover how these initiatives are helping our members recruit, retain, and inspire a skilled workforce.
Spring is in full swing, and we know it’s one of your busiest times of year. Whether you’re in the greenhouse, out on job sites, or managing a team—you’ve got a lot going on. That’s why we’ve pulled together everything TNLA has going on this month, all in one place, so you don’t miss a beat.
Regional Meetings: Connect with Your Local Green Industry Community Region I Meeting – Support the Future of Horticulture Join us for an evening at Palo Alto Community College as we spotlight the Horticulture Program and kick off the student competition season. April 8, 2025 Tour at 5:00 PM | Meeting 6:00–8:00 PM Palo Alto Community College – Art Room 101 Free to attend + Free parking | Dinner provided RSVP by April 7 to: [email protected] Region III Spring Meeting – Tour & Annual Business Meeting Tour the beautiful Purtis Creek Farm and enjoy great conversation and dinner with fellow members. May 15, 2025 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM Purtis Creek Farm – Eustace, TX Free to attend + Free parking | Dinner provided RSVP by May 9 to: [email protected] Speaker: TBD TNLA Green Report Podcast: Industry Voices You Need to Hear Just Released: Season 4, Episode 4: “Cultivating the Future” with Dr. Andrew King Go behind the scenes of the Texas Superstar® Trials and hear what makes a plant a true standout in Texas landscapes. Posted March 31 Listen now: Episode 4 on Podbean Coming April 9: Season 4, Episode 5: “Rooted in Quality” with Savanna Taylor Thornton Get an insider’s look at the 2025 season from Lone Star Trees, plus industry insights on tariffs, labor, and advocacy. Listen here: greenreport.podbean.com Free Webinar: Reaching Families & Educators Through Nature Unlocking New Customer Opportunities Through Early Childhood Connections Presented by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s Dr. Jodi Nerren and Anna Raumaker. Thursday, April 24, 2025 1:30 PM Zoom Register: Click here to register Learn how to connect with families and educators by highlighting the benefits of nature in child development—and turn them into loyal green industry customers. Nursery/Landscape Expo 2025 Registration is LIVE! Get ready for Nursery/Landscape Expo 2025, happening August 5–7. Register early and lock in discounted rates by July 18! Booths selling fast!! Mobile App launching soon, be on the look out for updates. Here's a few sneak peek session titles:
Coming end of April: Spring Issue of TNLA Working for You Magazine Our Spring 2025 issue of TNLA Working For You goes live in late April, and you won’t want to miss it! This issue celebrates our award winners honored at the Lone Star Hort Forum, digs into real-time compliance guidance on immigration, features exclusive stories from WTAMU, and offers practical insights into landscape marketing, pest management, and more. Whether you're looking to be inspired, stay compliant, or gain an edge in today’s competitive landscape, this issue has something for everyone in the green industry. Keep an eye on your inbox—we’ll let you know as soon as it’s live. Coming in May: “Embrace Your Space” Campaign Launch! We’re excited to launch our "Embrace Your Space" campaign this May—a free marketing toolkit to help your business promote spring planting and boost customer engagement. Get ready for downloadable social graphics, fliers, and easy-to-use content you can put to work right away. We know this season can be intense—but we’re here to make it easier. From advocacy to events to marketing tools, TNLA has your back. Here’s to a strong spring season! In light of increased reports of immigration enforcement actions across the country, including worksite audits and compliance inspections, it’s more important than ever for businesses in the green industry to stay informed and prepared. While there is no confirmed evidence of widespread employer-based ICE raids, the situation is rapidly evolving, and misinformation is spreading.
As an employer, you have a legal obligation to comply with federal and state employment laws, but you also have rights in how you respond to workplace enforcement actions. That’s why TNLA is committed to providing credible information and resources to help businesses navigate these challenges confidently. Key Steps for Employers to Stay Prepared ✔ Review I-9 Compliance: Ensure that all employee records are properly completed and up to date. ICE audits can happen at any time, and missing or incorrect documentation could result in penalties. ✔ Know Your Rights & Responsibilities: While employers must follow federal employment laws, it is equally important to avoid discriminatory hiring or termination practices based on immigration status. ✔ Have a Plan in Place: If ICE visits your workplace, designate a point of contact, understand what documents may be requested, and consult legal counsel immediately. ✔ Seek Reliable Guidance: Given the complexity of immigration laws, working with experienced legal professionals can help ensure compliance while protecting your business and employees. Upcoming TNLA Webinar: Get the Facts from an Expert To help members separate fact from fear, TNLA is hosting a free webinar with nationally recognized immigration and employment attorney Jacob Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP. 📅 Date: March 26, 2025 ⏰ Time: 12pm NOON 💻 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Dg313xi8THiDdJFflTmSiA What You’ll Learn: ✅ Understanding ICE Enforcement Actions – The key differences between raids, audits, and inspections and what they mean for your business. ✅ How to Prepare for ICE Audits & Workplace Visits – What steps you should take now to ensure compliance before an audit happens. ✅ Proactive I-9 Audits – How internal audits can help identify and correct issues before enforcement actions. ✅ Addressing Employee Concerns – Best practices for communicating with employees, handling workplace uncertainty, and countering misinformation. ✅ Your Rights & Responsibilities as an Employer – How to stay compliant while also protecting your business. Attendees will also receive the Monty & Ramirez “Toolkit” for Immigration Compliance for Employers and Know Your Rights materials to share with employees. Know Your Rights: What to Do If ICE Visits Your Business While each situation is unique, there are general best practices that employers should follow if ICE agents arrive at your workplace: 🔹 Public Areas: ICE agents can enter public areas of a business, but they do not have the authority to stop, question, or detain individuals without cause. Employees in public spaces have the right to remain silent and request an attorney. 🔹 Private Areas: ICE agents cannot enter private areas of your business without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Administrative warrants (such as DHS Forms I-200 or I-205) do not grant ICE access to private areas. 🔹 During a Search: If ICE has a valid search warrant, monitor agents closely to ensure they stay within the scope of the warrant. Do not voluntarily provide access to records beyond what is legally required. 🔹 I-9 Audits: If notified of a Form I-9 audit, contact legal counsel immediately. Employers typically have three business days to provide I-9 forms. If ICE identifies unauthorized employees, businesses have 10 days to correct documentation or remove affected employees from payroll. Supporting Employees with Know Your Rights Training With enforcement actions making headlines, many workers fear workplace raids or unexpected detentions. Employers should consider providing Know Your Rights training so employees understand their protections under U.S. law, including: ✔ The right to remain silent – Employees are not required to answer questions about their immigration status. ✔ The right to refuse a search – ICE agents must have a valid warrant to conduct a workplace search. ✔ The importance of staying calm – Employees should avoid sudden movements or fleeing, as this could escalate the situation. For additional guidance, we encourage employers to review the National Immigration Law Center’s resources: 📌 What to Do if You Are Arrested or Detained by Immigration TNLA is Here to Help At TNLA, we understand that immigration enforcement is a complex and sensitive issue for many businesses in our industry. That’s why we are closely monitoring the situation and will continue providing timely, factual updates to our members. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact: Curtis Smith – [email protected] 512-579-3851 Stay informed. Stay prepared. We’re here to support you. The green industry is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of key challenges is essential for success. TNLA is offering a series of expert-led webinars covering critical topics—from federal crop insurance to AI-driven hiring and immigration compliance. These free webinars provide actionable insights to help you navigate industry changes and protect your business in 2025.  February 27, 2025 | 12:00 PM 🎤 Speaker: Jeffrey VanLandingham, Tarpon Blue Insurance Advisors 🔗 Click here to join A new federal crop insurance program is expanding coverage options for nursery growers. This session will provide clarity on eligibility, benefits, and how to leverage federal resources. Key Takeaways: ✔ Expanded coverage options & higher-value protection for nursery growers ✔ How an FSA relationship can qualify growers for federal program dollars ✔ The difference between standard nursery plant insurance and federally subsidized crop insurance  leaderMarch 6, 2025 | 12:30 PM 🎤 Speaker: Jack Jostes, Ramblin Jackson 🔗 Register Here Finding & keeping quality employees is one of the biggest hiring challenges in the green industry. Learn how AI-driven strategies can help streamline hiring, improve job descriptions, and attract the right talent. What You’ll Learn: ✔ How AI can write job descriptions that attract top candidates ✔ AI tools to pre-screen applicants and improve hiring efficiency ✔ Strategies to boost employee retention & engagement ✔ Step-by-step ways to integrate AI into your recruiting process  March 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez, LLP Attorneys at Law 🔗 Register Here With immigration enforcement policies rapidly evolving, Texas businesses—especially those in landscaping & agriculture—are facing new compliance challenges. Learn how to protect your business and avoid costly legal missteps. Discussion Points: ✔ Understanding ICE Enforcement Actions – The difference between I-9 audits, targeted arrests, and worksite enforcement ✔ Preparing for ICE Audits – Steps to ensure your business is compliant before an inspection ✔ Conducting Internal I-9 Audits – How to identify and correct compliance issues before ICE does ✔ Addressing Employee Concerns – Best practices for clear communication & managing misinformation Don’t Miss Out – Secure Your Spot Today!These FREE webinars are designed to help TNLA members, and space is limited. Reserve your seat now and gain insights that will help your business thrive in 2025 Questions? Contact Sarah Riggins at [email protected] |
AuthorKim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager Archives
July 2026
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