Strengthening the Future of the Industry
These past few months have been tremendously gratifying for me. Together with our Board of Directors, we traveled to Tallahassee for the Q3 BOD meeting. Right before we began, we were fortunate to receive a visit from Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson. He took the time to listen to our stories as each of us introduced ourselves, our companies, and our why.
During the February meeting, we held a productive and forward-thinking discussion about FNGLA’s future. Anticipating continued growth, the Board voted to invest in an Association Management System (AMS) that will help FNGLA’s professional staff more effectively and efficiently serve members — benefits that will ultimately extend to our local chapters as well.
The following day, we met with Reps. Chad Johnson and Yvette Benarroch, and Sen. Ana Maria Rodriguez. While there, we learned the Florida Farm Bill was on the Senate floor for a vote. We were thrilled to be able to witness this important moment firsthand — and even more thrilled when the bill passed! FNGLA and the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) were recognized by Sen. Keith Truenow during the session, a proud reminder of the power of our united voice.
Another major win for Florida’s landscape industry came this week with the passage of the Florida Farm Bill. I’m proud to report several FNGLA members were in attendance in Sebring on March 23 when Gov. DeSantis signed the bill into law. This bill protects landscape professionals’ right to choose equipment based on what works best to help them beautify landscapes across the state.
FNGLA provides each of us the opportunity to share our stories, advocate for our industry, and make waves that create meaningful change. Our presence extends beyond government advocacy and we remain deeply involved in the educational arena through our collaborations with the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC). Just last week, UF Interim President Don Landry visited TREC and, once again, FNGLA was there. Sharing the importance of the center with President Landry was instrumental not just for our industry, but for the community we serve.
Thank you all for your continued commitment and passion. Together, we are strengthening the future of Florida’s nursery, landscape, and horticulture industry.
Best,
Marcella Lucio-Chincilla
FNGLA 2025-26 President
