STATE

Governor issues proclamation marking WNLA's 100th anniversary

WNLA

JANESVILLE - Wisconsin Nursery & Landscape businesses were recognized for their many contributions to the state's economy and environment during a ceremony held at the state Capitol in Madison.

President of the Wisconsin Nursery and Landscape Association Ross Swartz (third from left) accepts a proclamation from Gov. Scott Walker (center), commemorating the group’s 100th Anniversary during a ceremony with WNLA board members January 3, 2018, at the State Capitol.

Commemorating its 100th Anniversary, Governor Scott Walker issued a State of Wisconsin Gubernatorial Proclamation on Jan. 3, 2018 officially declaring it as Wisconsin Nursery & Landscape Association Day (WNLA) in Wisconsin.    

Gov. Walker presented the proclamation to WNLA President Ross Swartz in a ceremony at the State Capitol in Madison. Joining him were WNLA Board members and officers, Executive Director Brian Swingle, Representative Paul Tittl of Wisconsin’s 25th Assembly District, and Representative Amy Loudenbeck of the 31st Assembly District.

The proclamation recognizes not only the economic impact of WNLA but also acknowledges the environmental and social impact of nursery plants and landscaping, mentioning the benefits of erosion control, noise abatement, water filtration and purification, air quality improvement, oxygen production, energy savings, community beautification and pride, plus the advantage to wildlife and pollinators that a robust landscape provides.    

WNLA’s history began on December 27, 1917 when a small group of growers formalized their alliance, crafted a set of bylaws, and created the Wisconsin Nurserymen’s Association.

  Over the years, its membership and mission grew. It later became the Wisconsin Nursery Association, and then in 2015 the organization expanded to become the Wisconsin Nursery and Landscape Association.

Throughout its 100-year history, the Association has represented the interests of growers of nursery products, including trees and shrubs, which bring billions of dollars to Wisconsin’s economy.

The Wisconsin Nursery and Landscape Association serves the Green industry and its 225 members, which include growers, landscapers, and industry suppliers. WNLA is celebrating its 100th Anniversary with events in 2018.