VIP Green Industry Tour
Highlighting Challenges and Innovations
On October 24, 2024, the Georgia Green Industry Association (GGIA) held a VIP Green Industry Tour focused on Gwinnett County, providing industry insights and hands-on experiences to a distinguished group of legislative and regulatory representatives as well as agricultural advocates and partners. Organized by GGIA’s Legislative Committee, the tour underscored the critical role of Georgia's green industry and illuminated the challenges and innovations defining modern ornamental/environmental horticulture.
The day began at Ruppert Landscape, where guests explored the need for advanced machinery in an industry faced with significant labor shortages. VIPs were introduced to the technical demands and safety protocols behind commercial-grade equipment, even having the opportunity to drive a commercial-grade zero-turn mower. This interactive experience highlighted both the power and precision of the machinery required to meet industry standards and productivity goals.
Next, the group visited MNI Direct, where they encountered the logistical complexities of plant health, transportation, and plant selection—key components for establishing and maintaining green industry operations in urban settings. During the tour, discussions pivoted to the unique hurdles of starting and operating re-wholesale nurseries in densely populated areas with topics covering a vast range including infrastructure needs, land use, water, transportation, and other unique challenges that these businesses face.
The tour concluded at Premier Growers, where guests were welcomed into one of the newly expanded greenhouse ranges, featuring a pansy production line. A food truck, stationed within the center aisle of the greenhouses, provided lunch as the group gained insights into the planting line and the behind-the-scenes processes essential to maintaining plant health and productivity. Conversations here focused on the daily challenges growers face, especially in urban areas, from stormwater management to zoning, labor, and evolving agricultural practices. Our guests were treated to some complimentary flowers to take home and enjoy throughout the fall and winter months.
“We were thrilled to have representatives from the Governor’s office, the Lieutenant Governor’s office, and Senators Warnock and Ossoff’s offices join us, alongside state Senators Merritt and Rahman and Representative Matt Reeves,” said Lanie Riner, GGIA’s Executive Director. “Tours like these allow us to share our industry with decision-makers who impact our ability to grow and succeed as an industry, leading to greater understanding and collaborative efforts in the future.”
Representatives from the Georgia Agribusiness Council, Georgia Department of Agriculture, and the University of Georgia Extension also joined the tour, each providing valuable insights into legislative advocacy efforts, state-supported programs, and research that benefit the green industry. The day’s events were made possible through the generous sponsorship of Ruppert Landscapes, MNI Direct, Premier Growers, Custom Agronomics, and the University of Georgia Extension.
The tour left attendees with a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s green industry, emphasizing the resilience and dedication of those committed to its success. Through experiences like these, GGIA continues to foster meaningful connections with legislative partners, ensuring the industry’s ongoing growth and adaptation to evolving challenges.
