In times like these, there is no lack of issues to discuss. Hot topics range from labor to environmental issues to the future of trade shows. As president of the Southern Nursery Association and member of the Horticultural Research Institute Executive Committee, Frank Collier has an insider's view. Here's what he had to say on these topics and more.

Q. Do you think the future of trade shows in general is strong? What do you consider their primary competition?

A. The future of trade shows looks great. SNA is one of the larger shows in the horticultural industry not only on a regional side but nationally and internationally with our relationship with the European trade show [IPM]. We feel there will be some consolidation of shows both small and large in the future. The Internet is somewhat a competitor, but I feel most people will still come to the shows, especially SNA, which continues to bring buyers and sellers together.

Q. How has the relationship with the trade show IPM in Essen, Germany, been?

A. The relationship is getting stronger every year. SNA exhibitors and members are benefiting by making our show a more international event, as both shows are committed to promoting each other.

Exhibitors have also had help moving to the international event from the Southern United States Trade Association. SUSTA has been giving support by providing translators and traveling with people we know, some of whom have been exhibiting at IPM for several years.

Q. Labor is still a major concern industrywide. What do you hope for in an immigration reform bill?

A. The underlying concern regarding labor availability to our industry remains unchanged by the events of Sept. 11. We still have a number of current workers who carry fraudulent papers, and that challenge needs to be addressed by adjusting the status of the best and most reliable among them. We also still need to have a functional guest-worker program in both production nurseries and landscape crews.

The opponents of the immigration changes have new ammunition, but their arguments are more emotional than practical. If we are to make our borders more secure, we need to create more workable procedures for people with legitimate reasons (such as work) to get across the border. For those millions here with fraudulent or no documentation, we need to get those people on the books or out of here. This is no time to be backing down on our legislative initiative in Washington.

Q. As a member of the Horticultural Research Institute Executive Committee, you're privy to many upcoming research projects. Which ones seem to have the most potential to positively impact the industry?

A. The robotics work going on at Carnegie Mellon University has great potential for helping with our labor needs. Also, the environmental research that is going on in several areas will pay off.

We're already an environment-friendly industry and results in this area will help keep us on that path. HRI is conducting a study of members to solicit member input on the priorities for horticultural research in the coming years.

Q. Are there any areas not being addressed where horticultural research is needed?

A. Every year the board of HRI looks at hundreds of proposals -- some good, some not so promising -- but with research it takes time to get results. I am sure we miss some opportunities but we need to communicate with our universities to get them on board to address those areas that have not been proposed for research.

Q. What are the biggest environmental concerns facing the industry?

A. The nursery industry is what is called a minor user of pesticides and other chemicals, so we don't get labels for chemicals that other agricultural crops get to use. We are limited in what we can put out for best controls, but also we are not damaging the environment because we use fewer chemicals on our crops. SNA's development of the Best Management Practices Manual is helping with these concerns, with state governments adopting these practices as guidelines.

Q. How can we, as a whole, better market out products as positive influences on the environment?

A. All nursery associations -- state, regional and national -- need to get the word out that our industry not only makes the world look better but the planting of trees and shrubs helps with heating and cooling our homes and businesses. Proper planting in the landscape helps with erosion and global warming (if it exists).

I see more cities both small and large planting more trees and shrubs. This is not only great for business but has a real positive effect on the environment. We need to build on this by working with city, county and state governments to show them the benefits that plants can have.

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© 2001 Branch-Smith Publishing