Green Report

H-2B Program Updates Featuring Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez LLP Live Podcast | Sponsored by Forward.US Homestead Room, 9:15 am - 9:40 am, January 5, 2026, DFW Hilton Lakes, Grapevine, TX The H-2B program continues to evolve—and staying informed is critical for employers who rely on seasonal labor. In this live podcast episode, immigration attorney Jacob Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP breaks down the latest H-2B updates, including recent policy changes, regulatory developments, and what employers should be preparing for now and in the year ahead. Jacob shares practical insights, real-world implications for green industry businesses, and answers key questions facing employers navigating compliance, workforce planning, and advocacy efforts related to the H-2B program. Whether you're a seasoned H-2B employer or exploring the program for the first time, this conversation delivers timely guidance you can put to use immediately. Sponsored by Forward.US, supporting smart immigration policy and a stronger workforce. Questions: What H-2B updates should Texas landscape employers be paying closest attention to right now, and how could they impact seasonal hiring? What are the most common compliance mistakes you see from Texas landscape companies using H-2B, and how can they avoid them? How is federal advocacy shaping the future of the H-2B program, and how can Texas landscape businesses get involved? For landscape companies new to H-2B, what should they realistically expect in terms of cost, timing, and value?

Economic Forecast and Industry Supply Demands Featuring Dr. Charlie Hall, Texas A&M University | Live Podcast conducted at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum Sponsored by Landmark Nurseries, Inc. In this live podcast, Dr. Charlie Hall shares an economic outlook for the green industry, examining market trends, consumer demand, and supply chain pressures. Learn what lies ahead for growers, landscapers, and retailers—and how businesses can plan for shifting costs, labor challenges, and changing demand in the months ahead. Questions: What does the current economic outlook mean for the green industry this year? How are supply chain and input costs expected to impact growers and landscapers? What demand trends should green industry businesses be watching most closely? What steps can companies take now to stay resilient in an uncertain economy?

Top Tips for Talent Acquisition Featuring Justin Dorsey, SPHR, GPHR | Live Podcast held at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum Sponsored by John Deere Hiring and keeping great employees remains a top challenge. In this live podcast, Justin Dorsey of Texas HR Team shares practical tips for attracting, hiring, and retaining talent in today's competitive labor market. Learn proven strategies to strengthen recruiting, improve hiring practices, and build a workforce that supports long-term business success. Questions What's the biggest mistake companies make when trying to attract talent today? Which recruiting strategies are working best right now for skilled labor roles? How can employers better use technology and employer branding to promote open positions? What's one immediate change businesses can make to improve hiring results?

D.E.E.D. to Success Featuring Dee Maddox, DMX Consulting | Live Podcast recorded at the Lone Star Hort Forum Sponsored by Leaf Landscape Supply In this live podcast, Dee Maddox shares the D.E.E.D. framework for building stronger, more effective teams. Learn practical strategies for developing employees, strengthening leadership, and creating a workplace culture that drives accountability, engagement, and long-term success in today's workforce. Questions What does D.E.E.D. stand for, and why is it so effective for team success? How can leaders use the D.E.E.D. framework to improve accountability and performance? What common leadership behaviors hold teams back, and how does D.E.E.D. address them? What's one practical step leaders can take today to start applying D.E.E.D.?

Featuring Ryan Watkins, Hort Mentor | Live Podcast held at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum Change and uncertainty are constant in today's green industry. In this live podcast, Ryan Watkins of Hort Mentor shares insights on adapting to shifting markets, labor challenges, and evolving customer expectations. Learn how leaders can stay flexible, plan ahead, and turn uncertainty into opportunity for long-term success. Questions What are the biggest unknowns facing the green industry right now? How can businesses prepare for uncertainty? What leadership skills matter most when navigating change? How can companies turn uncertainty into an opportunity for growth?

Employers' Biggest Legal Mistakes Featuring Dustin Paschal, Simon Paschal PLLC | Live Podcast held at the TNLA Lone Star Hort Forum Employment law missteps can be costly. In this live podcast, attorney Dustin Paschal breaks down the most common legal mistakes employers make and how to avoid them. From hiring and termination to policies and compliance, gain practical guidance to reduce risk and protect your business in today's complex legal environment. Questions What are the most common legal mistakes employers are making right now? Where do businesses most often get into trouble with hiring or termination? How important are written policies in protecting employers from liability? What's one legal step employers can take today to reduce risk? Can employers legally terminate an employee based on posts made on their personal social media accounts, and what factors should they consider before taking action?

The H-2B program is constantly changing, and staying informed is critical for employers who rely on seasonal labor. In this live podcast, immigration attorney Jacob Monty breaks down the latest H-2B policy and regulatory updates and what they mean for green industry employers. Get practical insights on compliance, workforce planning, and advocacy—whether you're a longtime H-2B user or just getting started.

In this live podcast, Dr. Charlie Hall shares an economic outlook for the green industry, examining market trends, consumer demand, and supply chain pressures. Learn what lies ahead for growers, landscapers, and retailers—and how businesses can plan for shifting costs, labor challenges, and changing demand in the months ahead.

Hiring and keeping great employees remains a top challenge. In this live podcast, Justin Dorsey of Texas HR Team shares practical tips for attracting, hiring, and retaining talent in today's competitive labor market. Learn proven strategies to strengthen recruiting, improve hiring practices, and build a workforce that supports long-term business success.

In this live podcast, Dee Maddox shares the D.E.E.D. framework for building stronger, more effective teams. Learn practical strategies for developing employees, strengthening leadership, and creating a workplace culture that drives accountability, engagement, and long-term success in today's workforce.

Change and uncertainty are constant in today's green industry. In this live podcast, Ryan Watkins of Hort Mentor shares insights on adapting to shifting markets, labor challenges, and evolving customer expectations. Learn how leaders can stay flexible, plan ahead, and turn uncertainty into opportunity for long-term success.

Employment law missteps can be costly. In this live podcast, attorney Dustin Paschal breaks down the most common legal mistakes employers make and how to avoid them. From hiring and termination to policies and compliance, gain practical guidance to reduce risk and protect your business in today's complex legal environment.

Sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency In this episode, Hall of Fame speaker Terry Brock breaks down how AI is already transforming nurseries, greenhouses, and landscape operations—and how you can use it to grow profits in 2026. Forget buzzwords and sci-fi hype. This session delivers real-world examples and live demos showing how horticulture businesses are using AI to improve forecasting, reduce waste, spot trends early, and strengthen customer relationships. You'll explore practical AI tools—including but not limited to ChatGPT—and walk away with a realistic action plan for what to test, what to ignore, and how to get your team using AI effectively, even if you're not a tech expert. If you want AI to work for your business (not overwhelm it), this episode is your roadmap.

Sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency In this TNLA webinar, industry experts share the latest research and innovations in thrips management and biological control. Learn how to identify thrips, strengthen integrated pest management programs, and apply practical, sustainable solutions for greenhouse and controlled-environment operations. Panelists include, Katerina Velasco-Graham, M.Agr., M.S., Subin Neupane, Ph.D., and Pedro Toledo, Ph.D.

Sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency In this episode, learn how to attract and convert high-end landscaping clients without wasting time on unqualified leads. Discover why traditional marketing falls short with affluent buyers, how to position your company as the obvious premium choice, and ways to prequalify prospects, improve pricing transparency, and close bigger, more profitable projects.

Sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency In this episode, Dr. Rafia Khan provides a critical update on the invasive two-spot cotton leafhopper recently detected in Texas. Learn how to correctly identify this emerging pest, recognize early signs of infestation, and implement effective management strategies to protect plants, nurseries, and landscape operations. This episode is essential listening for growers and green industry professionals navigating this new and evolving threat.

Sponsored by Hotchkiss Insurance Agency | Presented by TNLA + LeanScaper | Hosted by Tommy Cole Running a business shouldn't mean sacrificing your time or personal life. In this episode, Tommy Cole reframes productivity as a systems problem—not a hustle problem—and shares practical ways founders can redesign how they work. Listeners learn how to escape the busyness trap, audit where their time is really going, and rebuild their schedules around values, priorities, and purpose. The session explores the F.L.O.W. productivity model, the power of eliminating, automating, and delegating effectively, and how AI can serve as a personal time coach to keep systems running smoothly. Designed for business owners and leaders feeling stretched thin or out of alignment, this episode offers a clear, structured path to reclaiming time, gaining clarity, and leading with leverage—not burnout.

In this episode, Curtis Smith (TNLA Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs) sits down with Arnulfo Hinojosa, COO of FEWA, to break down the latest changes to the H-2A program following the U.S. Department of Labor's new Interim Final Rule. In just 30 minutes, we cover what employers in the nursery, greenhouse, and landscape sectors need to know heading into the 2026 filing season — including new wage calculations, advertising requirements, incidental tasks, staggered start dates, interview waivers, and the broader legal landscape surrounding H-2A. Topics include: • What's now in effect under the Interim Final Rule • How OEWS wage data, skill levels, and the Adverse Compensation Adjustment will impact pay • Best practices for advertising wages and retaining returning workers • Clarifying incidental tasks and job-order scope • How staggered start dates and interview waivers work under the new system • What lawsuits and regulatory shifts mean for employers • Practical next steps for green-industry operations preparing 2026 applications A timely conversation for anyone navigating seasonal labor, compliance, and workforce planning under the evolving H-2A program.

Water took center stage in Texas this year. In this episode of The Green Report Podcast, we sit with Jeremy Mazur, Director of Infrastructure and Natural Resources Policy for 2036, to unpack the constitutional amendment on water, the groundwater fight from the regular and special sessions (including Rep. Cody Harris's efforts), and what it all signals for next session—with a focus on real-world impacts for TNLA members.

This episode of the Green Report takes you inside the fast-paced world of the Texas Legislature with TNLA's Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, Curtis Smith. From a record-setting water infrastructure win to stopping dangerous licensing and pesticide bills, Curtis breaks down how TNLA successfully defended the green industry at the Capitol. Plus, hear how TNLA members made a direct impact through advocacy and grassroots outreach—and what's next for protecting your business. For more information on TNLA and Advocacy, visit www.TNLAonline.org.

In this episode of the Green Report Podcast, we head out on the 2025 Texas Plant Trial Road Trip with Paul Winski, Program Specialist for the Green Industry at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Recorded live from the Houston-area stop at Brookshire's 1502 Farm to Market 1489, Paul walks us through how more than 60 plant varieties are performing in real-world Texas heat and humidity. He also shares timely updates on collaborative research with TNLA members—including work on boxwood, biochar, and root growth regulators—with Native Texas Nursery, Lone Star Trees, and Everde. Discover what's growing strong in Texas and what it means for your landscape or nursery business.

Get the inside scoop on this year's highly anticipated Plant Trial Roadtrip with Dr. Andrew King, Assistant Professor at Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center in Overton. In this Green Report Podcast episode, Dr. King previews what growers, retailers, and landscapers can expect when the tour kicks off June 26 in Overton. Discover which plants are standing out in both container and landscape trials, and learn about key insights shaping the season's top performers. Listen in and plan your visit: Watch the Overton Plant Trial Preview

In this episode, we sit down with Savanna Taylor Thornton, Business Development lead at Lone Star Trees, to get an insider's look at how the 2025 spring season is shaping up for one of Central Texas' premier wholesale tree growers. Savanna shares what's flying off the field this year, the growing demand from landscape and nursery professionals, and what trends are taking root when it comes to tree types and sizes. We also dive into how recent worldwide issues that are impacting production, the ongoing challenges her team is navigating—from labor and logistics to pricing pressures—and how Lone Star Trees continues to prioritize quality and service. Beyond the field, Savanna brings a dynamic perspective shaped by her roles as Vice Chairman of TNLA Region VIII and a graduate of TNLA's Leadership Bootcamp. She talks about how those leadership experiences have informed her approach to business development and industry advocacy. Savanna shares her foresight into looking ahead to what's next for Lone Star Trees in 2025 and shares how professionals can best connect for collaboration and sourcing. Guest Bio: Savanna Taylor Thornton is the Business Development lead for Lone Star Trees, a family-run wholesale grower of field-grown specimen trees based in Central Texas. She also serves as the Vice Chairman of TNLA Region VIII and is a proud graduate of TNLA's Leadership Bootcamp Class III. With a strong horticultural background and a passion for supporting the green industry, Savanna is dedicated to bridging the gap between quality tree production and the professionals who need them. Special Thanks: This episode is brought to you by the Federation of Employers and Workers of America (FEWA). FEWA is committed to supporting ethical employment practices and workforce solutions in agriculture and beyond. To learn more, visit https://fewaglobal.org/.

In this insightful episode, we're joined by Dr. Andrew King, ornamental specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and assistant professor in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M University. Dr. King gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the Texas Superstar® Trials, explaining how this influential program evaluates and elevates standout plants that thrive in Texas conditions—impacting growers, landscapers, and gardeners statewide. We dive into the key traits researchers look for in potential superstars, from heat and drought tolerance to visual appeal and marketability. Dr. King also discusses his work in additional ornamental plant trials, shedding light on how these efforts complement the Superstar program and broaden the understanding of performance in diverse environments. Listeners will hear about some exciting new plants emerging from recent trials, what makes them promising for Texas landscapes, and the current research Dr. King is leading that could shape the future of ornamental plant selection and production. As climate conditions evolve, Dr. King shares his perspective on the biggest opportunities and challenges ahead for ornamental research—including sustainability, water use, and the importance of regionally adapted selections. Guest Bio: Andrew King, Ph.D., is the ornamental specialist for Texas A&M AgriLife Research and an assistant professor in the Department of Horticultural Sciences at Texas A&M University. Based at the AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Overton, Dr. King supports greenhouse and nursery operations across the state, with 75% of his role dedicated to research and 25% to extension outreach. A fourth-generation horticulturist with nearly 30 years of industry experience, he blends academic expertise with practical insights from his family's 110-year-old nursery business. Special Thanks: This episode is brought to you by the Federation of Employers and Workers of America (FEWA). FEWA is committed to supporting ethical employment practices and workforce solutions in agriculture and beyond. To learn more, visit https://fewaglobal.org/.  

Join moderator Curtis Smith (TNLA) and expert panelists Devin Guinn (AquaGreen Global, LLC), Anique Watson (Action Visa Assistance) and Antonio Vergara (Mundo Verde Irrigation and Landscaping) for an insightful live podcast. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of H-2A and H-2B work programs in the Texas green industry, sharing practical advice for navigating complex regulations, securing reliable labor, and fostering workforce sustainability. Sponsored by Forward.us, this session is a must-listen for industry professionals seeking to adapt and thrive. Thank you to our sponsor FORWARD.US

Join us as we “Prepare for All Things” with Brett Hoogeveen, who takes us behind the scenes to share his expert insights on strategic decision-making. Brett, the co-founder of Better Culture and Mindset, has a proven track record of helping teams achieve business growth and success. In this episode, you'll discover how to engage your team in premortem conversations, shifting the focus from the to-do list to driving meaningful outcomes.

Join Paul Winski from Texas AgriLife Extension as he talks with Bill Barr, a seasoned expert in the nursery industry. In this episode, Bill reflects on his extensive career, which includes experience at several nurseries as well as his current role as a consultant specializing in propagation and new product development. Together, they explore the evolution of the nursery industry, highlighting the significant impact of technology on propagation techniques. Bill discusses his thoughts on automation and AI as commonplace tools within the industry, along with key factors affecting vegetative propagation. He shares tried-and-true germination methods and evaluates the advantages of different hormone applications. Additionally, Paul and Bill delve into the recent transition of the International Plant Propagator's Society to the International Plant Production Society, emphasizing how this change will enhance IPPS's reach and influence in the field of propagation.

In this podcast episode, dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) as the Green Report engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mark Manny from Evergro Organic Recycling, Weston Nieman of Native American Seed and Ryan Laird from San Jacinto Environmental Suppliers. The group discusses their current utilization of AI in various business operations and contemplates its potential impact on the industry's future. They also talk about how AI can optimize day-to-day activities, leading to enhanced efficiency within the Green Industry. The dialogue highlights both the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI, raising intriguing questions about its role in reshaping the nursery and landscape industry's sustainable practices.

Paul Winski with Texas AgriLife Extension talks with Adrian Muehlstein, TMCNP at Southwest Wholesale Nursery, where Adrian discusses strategies for preparing their staff for Spring by ensuring they are well-versed in plant characteristics, equipment training, and safety. Adrian also addresses supply chain challenges in delivering quality products to their customers. As a former Chairman of the TNLA State Board of Directors, Adrian emphasizes his dedication to developing youth initiatives within the association to support education and workforce training for high school students.

Join us on our latest podcast episode as we dive into the world of sales with Jack Jostes, President & CEO of Ramblin Jackson. Ramblin Jackson is a full-service agency specializing in sales and marketing strategy, visual identity, website design, development, and search engine optimization. Their mission is to help small businesses succeed. In this insightful conversation, Jack shares invaluable insights on how to qualify budget in sales conversations. Listen in as Jack shares his top tips to secure customers for landscape companies gearing up for the busy Spring Season. Plus, don't miss out on a special promo code for Jack's book, "The Tree of Good Fortune." Tune in now to elevate your sales game and make the most out of every conversation.

TNLA delves into the fraudulent activities plaguing Landscape Supply Companies, causing significant financial losses. Luis Chamorro, representing Heirloom Soils, shares insights on combating this issue, detailing how he collaborated with Facebook to dismantle over 2500 suspicious profiles. He extends an invitation for further discussion and assistance through direct messages on any of Heirloom Soils' social media platforms. TNLA has joined forces with Luis to develop an informative flyer for distribution among your employees. To access this invaluable resource, please get in touch with Luis via email at luis.chamorro@warrens.us.

In this episode, Paul Winski with Texas AgriLife dives into the world of wholesale nursery business with Brad Abrameit, President of Magnolia Gardens Nursery. With 165 acres of production specializing in shrubs, perennials, and trees, with both a wholesale division and tissue culture lab Magnolia Gardens Nursery stands as a key player in the Texas market, with 95% of its business staying within the state. The nursery operates as a midsize company with a unique focus on tissue culture, selling young plants wholesale. Brad shares insights into the intricacies of running two different but interconnected businesses under one roof, leveraging shared services, administration, and technical expertise. One of the key trends Brad discusses is the increasing demand for cold-hardy and drought-tolerant plant materials, growing edibles and growing plants that are drought and pest resistant native to Texas. Brad sheds light on the challenges facing the nursery industry, particularly concerning rising costs and inflation. Labor, in particular, has emerged as the biggest cost increase as a percentage of sales, posing significant operational hurdles. As the conversation unfolds, Brad emphasizes the importance of adapting to evolving market demands while staying true to the nursery's core principles. With a commitment to providing quality, sustainable plant solutions, Magnolia Gardens Nursery continues to thrive amidst industry shifts and challenges. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of wholesale nursery business, straight from the desk of Brad Abrameit, a visionary leader in the field.  

In this Green Report Podcast episode, Texas AgriLife's Paul Winske interviews Mark Rainey with Rancho Encino, out of Bay City, TX. Mark delves into his extensive career as a large tree grower in the nursery sector. The conversation covers valuable insights, such as collaborating with Landscape Architects, maintaining quality standards for a growing operation, and navigating labor initiatives. Mark also provides advice for emerging professionals seeking a career in the Green Industry.    

We are thrilled to feature Courtney Ramsey, the dynamic force behind Courtney Ramsey Speaks. As a professional speaker and expert in navigating complex labor issues for business leaders, Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge. Courtney shares insights on strategically enhancing employee satisfaction, implementing effective retention methods, and fostering influential team communication in this exclusive episode. We are also excited to announce that Courtney will be a distinguished speaker at the Lone Star Hort Forum in Grapevine this January, hosted by TNLA. During the Lone Star Hort Forum, Courtney will present several insightful sessions to provide strategies for the Texas Green Industry to tackle labor challenges head-on. We are honored to have Courtney on The Green Report, providing listeners with a deep dive into building successful leaders, offering tips on delivering foundational feedback, and guiding them through the art of handling tough conversations – crucial skills for both leaders and managers. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode with Courtney Ramsey.

Join us on "Green Industry Insights," where host Paul Winski from Texas AgriLife engages in a captivating conversation with James and Allison Berry, founders of Environmental Landscape Solutions. Discover the challenges and triumphs in West Texas' dynamic landscape industry. In this podcast, the Berrys unveil their commitment to sustainability and strategies for tackling the labor challenge. They also share invaluable tips on staying current and knowledgeable in an ever-evolving industry and how the Nursery/Landscape EXPO and its education programs have helped their team gain the expertise they need to excel. Don't miss "Green Industry Insights" for an exclusive peek into West Texas' landscape sector. Subscribe now to gain insights from industry leaders and keep up with the latest trends.

In this episode, Representative Dwayne Burns details starting his career with the Grain and Feed Association before being hired as a legislative analyst for State Representatives Arlene Wohlgemuth and Gary Walker during the 74th legislative session. Representative Burns speaks of his time at the Texas Department of Agriculture under then-Commissioner Rick Perry, serving as a coordinator for TDA's Intergovernmental Affairs Division and as an inspector for the Texas Department of Agriculture, where he was responsible for weights and measures compliance, crop and seed certification, and enforcement of Texas' plant and pest quarantine laws, among other tasks over a 10-county region which included Bosque and Johnson counties. Representative Burns enthusiastically exclaims about his family ranch that's still in operation today and why he has taken up the fight to advance Texas Proposition 1, more colloquially known as Right-to-Farm.

Explore the inspiring journey of John Leifester, TCLP, as he delves into his unwavering commitment to the Green Industry on TNLA's Green Report podcast. With a compelling narrative, John shares his transformative experience from entering the industry to becoming the owner of Dedicated Landscape Solutions, a prestigious family-owned construction and high-end residential landscape firm in San Antonio, Texas, since 2014. In this engaging episode, John unveils the invaluable lessons he's gleaned on increasing his company's profitability. Moreover, he highlights his profound dedication to serving on the TNLA State Board of Directors, championing the association's Youth Initiative. John passionately discusses TNLA's cutting-edge curriculum packages tailored for high schools, designed to empower the next generation. He aspires to connect with aspiring students, demonstrating that the Green Industry offers lucrative and viable career opportunities. John's vision extends to inspiring students to embark on their journey toward becoming certified professionals even before graduation, taking meaningful strides toward a prosperous future. Take advantage of this captivating episode filled with insights and inspiration.

Featured in our latest episode of the Green Report Board Member Spotlight series, Rachelle Kemp owner of R&R Landscaping in Waco and incoming board chairwoman of TNLA.  Rachelle discusses how she got into the green industry, issues that TNLA will help tackle, and important priorities for her time on the board.  

Enjoy the launch of this new mini-series spotlighting key TNLA Board Members, this episode focusing on TNLA State Board Chairman Kevin Grossberndt.  We discuss his background, getting involved in TNLA Leadership, challenges facing the industry, ERP program, Growers Summit, and more.   Thank you to our sponsor Texas Mutual! 

Listen to this episode to get an update from D.C. on the H-2B amendment that passed the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and where that leaves us for FY 23.  We also discuss the status of the City of Dallas considering a potential ban on gas-powered landscape equipment.  Lastly a brief update on Austin's Landscape & Irrigation ordinance as who's coming to TNLA EXPO.  

Listen in to this episode where we speak with Kody Bessent, CEO of the Plains Cotton Growers, Inc. as we dive into the details of the Phase One announcement of the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) - the first installment of federal disaster money following Winter Storm Uri in 2021. In addition we review the Texas Ag Council, an organization that TNLA and PCG are deeply involved in regarding state-level policy.  Lastly we review a plant pest and disease bill both our organizations came together to pass in 2021 and what the future might hold on that issue.  Be sure to subscribe and give the podcast five stars.  Thanks for listening! 

This episode we talk with Lori Whitten with Action Visa and Gray Delaney with  SEA regarding reform initiatives in the H2 programs. Topics include a program overview, strategies on H-2B cap relief, and the legislative landscape we are working in. Listen in for a conversation on how we improve the H2 programs for the green industry.

This episode of the Green Report focuses on the current legal environment surrounding the COVID vaccine mandate.  Listen in as Laura Fowler with the Fowler Law Firm discusses compliance and the future of these mandates.  The Texas Workforce Commission letter described in the episode can be found here: https://www.twc.texas.gov/files/businesses/commissioner-letter-covid19-vac-mandate-120821-twc.pdf

TNLA takes a deep dive with Mike Meroney, an independent lobbyist fighting for better workforce solutions and developing curriculum for high school students. Mike is a strong advocate when it comes to developing a strong workforce for the future. During this episode, he provides insight on some of the bills he has worked on when industries have hit the panic button on their employment struggle. Mike also walks us through his current work on driving policymakers to pass legislation to help add highly valued high school curriculum to TEA's "magic list" of IBC's, plus much more.

Dr. Marco Palma & Dr. Charlie Hall What is the economic contribution of the Texas nursery and landscape industry?  Listen in as Dr. Marco Palma and Dr. Charlie Hall dive into the details of the most recent report from Texas A&M University on the impact of our industry on the State of Texas.  With the 2020 report detailing over $22 billion dollars in total sales, there is a lot of value to discuss for business owners and policymakers.  New! Watch the podcast on YouTube Here! 

Episode 10 features Zaira Garcia, Texas State Director of FWD.us, a national organization with state-level chapters focused on fixing the broken U.S. immigration system.  Amongst the priorities for FWD.us is improving the H-2B and H-2A programs, something the green industry has been working on for years. In this episode, we go into the work of FWD.us and their partnership with TNLA along with other Texas business groups to improve these vital programs.Thank you to our sponsor of this episode for the support, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency.   For additional information on the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association click here.

In this episode, our guest is John Farner who serves as the Industry Development Director for the national Irrigation Association. John jumps into topics related to COVID relief, federal developments on water, and a brief overview of the election landscape heading into November 2020. John gives our audience a perspective of someone who is working on water-related issues in Congress and someone who monitors the development of irrigation policy across the United States.   Thank you to our sponsor of this episode for the support, Hotchkiss Insurance Agency.

In this episode of the TNLA Green Report we interview Tiffany Lashmet, author of the Texas Agriculture Law Blog. Tiffany is an associate professor and extension specialist for the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.  In our interview we covered the Water of the United States update, liability on pesticide drift, landowner liability, and property rights.  Be sure to listen to the episode and check out Tiffany's blog at https://agrilife.org/texasaglaw/about/.  

The Green Report speaks with Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller, head of a massive state agency that impacts the green industry daily. In this episode we review some of the critical functions of the agency and discuss some ongoing efforts TNLA and TDA are working in partnership. Commissioner Miller gives an update on the trade missions and disease control efforts in our state.  

In the past two years, major cities across Texas have expanded their regulatory authority by creating new employment mandates on businesses of all sizes.  As Texas employers struggle to comply, the business community, including TNLA, have begun to push back on these patchwork regulations.  This episode we speak with Annie Spilman, Texas State Director for NFIB and spokeswoman for the ASSET coalition on the fight against cities creating employer mandates. 

Texas is preparing for the start of a new industrial hemp market and it has grower's curious about the role of nursery growers in the business potential of hemp propagation.  Listen in as we talk with Zack Guignardi from Colorado about how he is using greenhouses for the propagation of hemp clones, and producing clean, genetically consistent stock for row crop farmers in his state.  We get into propagation techniques, seeds vs. clones, the variations of the hemp plant, and potential risks.