Georgia green industry seeks political intervention

I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage: It’s not what you know, but who you know. This became very evident as I participated in the Georgia Green Industry Association’s Capitol Day in February. At this annual event, association members deliver plants to legislators and staff in the state capitol and to Department of Agriculture officials and staff. This year members delivered rosemary plants supplied by Ken and Leah James, owners of James Greenhouses in Colbert, Ga.

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Each plant was accompanied by a card identifying its scientific and common names along with basic care information. The card included a list of member associations in the Georgia Urban Agriculture Council and its purpose along with the mission of GGIA. On the other side were the four top issues facing the green industry: drought management, standardization of rules and regulations, invasive plants and immigration.

As GGIA members delivered the plants to grateful state employees, they stressed that the plants were low maintenance and required very little water. This information made the plants even more appreciated by many recipients who have been dealing with water restrictions.

No water, no business

In addition to distributing plants, GGIA members met separately with Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin. During these meetings, GGIA members focused on the impact the drought was having on the green industry and the need to have a consistent policy and regulations statewide regarding outdoor watering.

Although Gov. Sonny Perdue had eased Level 4 water restrictions in February, some counties and cities, including Atlanta, continued to enforce the strict no outdoor watering ban. The restrictions started in September 2007. GGIA members explained to the Cagle and Irvin the need for a consistent state policy for both businesses and the public to follow. House Bill 1281, introduced by Rep. Terry England, who operates a retail garden business, would prohibit local government restrictions on outdoor water use to be more restrictive than the state’s during periods of drought without obtaining an exemption from Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division.

GGIA executive officer Wayne King Sr. told Irvin that spring sales are to the green industry what Christmas sales are to other retailers. He said water restrictions could severely cripple the green industry and force many more companies out of business. Based on an industry survey conducted by researchers at the Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture, continued water restrictions would result in an annual loss of $3.15 billion and the termination of 30,000 jobs.

Beginning March 15 consumers and professionals who participate in the state’s Outdoor Water Use Registration Program are allowed to water newly installed landscapes on a limited basis for 10 weeks. The program aims to educate the public about proper watering techniques and the importance of water conservation.

GGIA sought financial contributions from its members to initiate a radio and print media campaign to promote the program to industry members, businesses and the public. During the meeting with Irvin, members solicited his assistance in obtaining state funds to help finance this public awareness campaign.

GGIA members made a strong case for political and financial support. Here’s hoping their urgent request for assistance is heeded by officials who can make or break the state’s $8.1 billion green industry, which is second only to poultry in farm gate value.

For more: Georgia Green Industry Association, (706) 632-0100; www.ggia.org.

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- David Kuack

May 2008