OFA and ANLA to form new association

The Board of Directors of OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals has unanimously voted to begin the process of organizing a new association with the American Nursery and Landscape Association (ANLA).

Since June 2011, OFA’s executive committee has been meeting with ANLA’s leaders about the opportunity for and viability of a formal relationship between the two organizations, and last January, the two associations announced the formation of a joint venture to support business education and government relations activities. The joint venture working group discussed the idea of forming a new organization as early as its first meeting.

“We are listening to our members,” says OFA President Mike McCabe, owner of McCabe’s Greenhouse & Floral in Lawrenceburg, Ind. “Results of a membership and organizational study performed at the end of last year indicated that members of both associations want the organizations to work closer to unify the industry. They want their industry association to be all encompassing – one that touches and links all pieces of the horticulture industry, which can be offered by a new organization. After significant exploration and evaluation, the elected leadership of OFA determined this is the best way to meet the needs of our members and the industry.”

The timeline is to have a new organization, which will replace OFA and ANLA, established between July 2013 and January 2014.

“This is not a merger,” says Michael V. Geary, CAE, OFA’s chief executive officer. “This is taking the best of what both associations do to create a new organization that will advance the industry and better serve our members. We have many details to work through, but OFA’s leaders are committed to ensuring that our members are involved in the decision-making process. It’s an exciting time for both organizations and the future of the horticulture industry. The combined 215 years of service and resources will create a powerful and meaningful association.”

Following ANLA Executive Vice President Bob Dolibois’ scheduled retirement at the end of the year, Mr. Geary will become the chief staff executive of both ANLA and OFA beginning on Jan. 1, 2013. The organizations will continue to be governed separately, but he will lead the day-to-day operations of both associations.

To keep up to date on the formation of the new organization, visit www.OneVoiceOneIndustry.com.