Director’s Corner

“Can I apply weed and feed products with just a pesticide license?”

“Round-Up that I buy from a box store is the only pesticide I use, why do I need to be certified?”

“Why did the inspector disapprove of my using vinegar to control weeds?”

“I started mowing grass when I retired from the Navy and now I want to spray for weeds. I’ve been told I need something called 3B Certification. What is that?”

The questions continue – these are just a small sample of calls I’ve answered over the past months. From across the commonwealth, persons from businesses as small as one-man operations to multi-state corporations contact us with their pesticide and fertilizer questions. They are not seeking answers to agronomic needs but to help them comply with laws and regulations.

I am honored those professionals rely on the VTC for guidance. They trust us and that trust is one example of how we are fulfilling our mission of serving the green industry. That service is not limited to answering pesticide and fertilizer questions but includes reaching out to elected officials, especially persons in the General Assembly, and partnering with influential environmental groups who see the need to work with us.

It was not too many years ago when any meeting with a state senator or delegate began with the obligatory explanation of our industry, its scope, and dispelling commonly held fallacies. Many elected officials used to be 100% certain that at least 50% of all fertilizer applied by lawn care professionals ended up in the Chesapeake Bay. Now, we routinely hear praises about the values we espouse, and officials seek our help in protecting and preserving the environment. Not bad!

No one disputes the extensive influence of The Chesapeake Bay Foundation –their leaders are frequently quoted in newspapers; regulators heed their recommendations; and elected officials seek their advice. Our first meetings with that great foundation were precarious, largely because of misconceptions on both sides. More than once, I heard audible gasps by green industry professionals when one of their scientists was introduced as the next conference speaker. We now see the value of collaboration as we work together in a way that benefits both organizations and, most importantly, the environment.

What’s next? We are initiating a Friend of the Industry award, designed to be given to a member of the General Assembly who has consistently shown support for the green industry. Look for that award to debut at the Stafford County Service Project in April!

Remember, we exist to serve you. Please let us know how we can improve.

Tom Tracy, Ph.D.

VTC Executive Director