(Columbus, Ohio, July 14, 2025)–RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment)® gathered more than 60 industry professionals at Cultivate’25 for its annual Industry Issues Update, hosted in partnership with AmericanHort.
Held during the nation’s leading horticultural event, the session spotlighted RISE’s top priorities and the critical importance of unified industry engagement. RISE President Megan Provost opened the session with a clear call to action: get involved, stayinformed, and speak up,stating,“From local pesticide bans to sweeping federal proposals, weare facing unprecedented policy threats at every level of government.
”This year alone, RISE tracked more than 750 state bills with the potential to impact our industry.“These aren’t just numbers; they represent real consequences for your businesses, employees, and customers.”
Provost emphasized that the best course of action to face these issues is consistent and proactive advocacy. “When we show up early, armed with facts and real-world expertise, we shape the conversation before it shapes us,” she added. “Your voices matter. You are the ones who can explain the value of our tools, the science behind our work, and the role we play in protecting public health and green spaces.”
Joining Provost were two industry leaders with boots-on-the-ground advocacy experience—Aaron Dillon, Vice President and General Manager of Four Winds Growers in California, and Scott Powell, Nursery General Manager of Dutchman Tree Farms in Michigan. Both encouraged attendees to take action with confidence and urgency.
“Getting a seat at the table is essential,or you’ll find yourself on the menu,”Dillon said. Reflecting on his meetings with legislators and staff, he underscored the power of clear, consistent messaging.
“One of the most eye-opening parts of my advocacy journey was realizing that lawmakers often don’t read every bill. That’s why storytelling and repetition matter. When we align our message, we present a unified front for our industry.”
Powell echoed this sentiment, drawing from his own growth story.“We went from a small family farm to the largest Christmas tree producer in the Midwest. We ship 90% of our trees in just 10 days,”he said.“That kind of operation depends on policies that work. I’m in D.C. five times a year to make sure lawmakers understand what we do and why it matters. Whether it’s with AmericanHort, RISE, or another group, we need to be aligned and active. If we don’t tell our story, someone else will.”
Provost closed the session with a challenge and a reminder. “This industry is at its best when wework together. Whether you’re sharing your story with a lawmaker, volunteering on a RISE committee, or activating your networks, your involvement drives real change. It takes many voices to move the needle, and together, we can ensure our industry’s story is not only heard, but understood.”To learn more about RISE’s advocacy efforts and how to get involved, visit the RISE Grassroots Network.