President’s Message

Service Matters

Service Projects, coordinated by the VTC Environmental Institute, are an integral part of this and previous issues of the Journal. Just like our distribution of Flowering Pollinator Seeds, these projects are letting politicians and other key decision makers know about our industry’s concern for the environment. From working with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to the County of Manassas, from Henrico County to Virginia Beach, these projects are generating goodwill and allowing us opportunities to correct misconceptions about our industry. Here are six important points about our Service Projects:

One, these projects work because others believe they are important. We are now being contacted by school divisions and environmental groups to work with them on projects. Remember, many of the persons and associations reaching out to us used to loathe (not too strong of a word) our industry. Now, they view us as valuable partners.

Two, many of those entities contacting us are willing to make meaningful contributions – providing labor, tools, materials, and sponsorships.

Three, it is not redundant to state the obvious: Past landscaping projects have attracted interest and visibility for the industry’s willingness to address environmental issues.

Four, many of these projects include installing plants other than turfgrass. Diversifying into the realm of perennials, natives, and other non-turfgrass plants is natural because many of our members own businesses that include both turf care and landscape maintenance.

Five, we have made many new friends of the industry utilizing the VTC-EI outreach and interactions. Many of these same groups would almost spit when VTC or turfgrass were mentioned when I joined three decades ago, now they solicit our help.

Six, we are often chosen for these projects because the VTC and our members are seen as industry experts.

As these Service Projects become more and more popular, more requests will follow. We would love to do some projects that involve other industry groups, perhaps renovating a Little League field, a neglected cemetery, or something similar. The goal of such projects would need to emphasize safe playing surface for players or lower maintenance for Parks and Recreation departments. We would love to have other green industry associations work with the VTC Environmental Institute. Our entire industry benefits from the positive public relations they generate.

Wes Bray

VTC President