From the President

This is a good time of year to remind ourselves why we are members of an industry association like the Turfgrass Association of North Carolina. Trade association membership is vital for supporting any given industry. Yes, some are more important than others, but most if not all, strive to provide benefits with for their members and with our industry in mind.

The Turfgrass Council of North Carolina provides several valuable benefits to its members. These benefits come in many forms to help support the turfgrass industry in North Carolina. This, in turn helps secure livelihoods working in the industry.

Benefits of being a member of TCNC include (and of course, not limited to):

Legislative Support

Membership allows TCNC to act as your voice on important issues that affect our industry and your livelihood. Issues like water allocation/use, pesticide & fertilizer use, taxation of services, H-1B Regulations, noise ordinance laws, just to name a few.

Your TCNC membership includes being a member of the North Carolina Green Industry Council (GIC). You cannot directly be a member of GIC without being a member of a recognized NC association. TCNC is a partner member of GIC. The NC Green Industry Council unites all green industry associations and constituents to:

• Represent and protect members’ legislative interests

• Promotes the value of green industry products and services

• Advocate the green industry a leader of environmental stewardship

One very recent example of TCNC legislative support is the association’s work to have the turfgrass industry categorized as essential workers in North Carolina during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. This was possible with the help of GIC and NCDA.

Situations effecting your business like this one occurs on a regular basis. They usually occur quickly and having an association looking out for you and your livelihood is an investment in the present and future.

Certification

TCNC is the only association that facilitates the North Carolina Certified Turfgrass Profession certification (NCCTP). The NCCTP designation is the only certification program dedicated to turfgrass professionals in North Carolina.

Being an NCCTP gives you professional credibility allowing you to stand out from the crowd.

Education

TCNC provides opportunities for CEU’s throughout the year with or new Knowledge Series events. These events will cover many issues from research updates to running a successful business and managing employees in these changing times.

Event Discounts

Member only discounts throughout NC for educational events. One example; you can attend the very well received NC State Field Day for only $5.00.

Your membership also allows TCNC to provide networking opportunities, research funding through NC Turfgrass Foundation, trade magazine, scholarship funding for qualified turfgrass students through the Eagle Foundation and discounted Workers Compensation Insurance through First Benefits.

TCNC has been here for you since 1974 and greatly appreciates your continued support.

Kevin Herrmann

2021 TCNC President