The Edge January/February 2026

“We need new people to do this, and there’s this intangible, wonderful thing that they can enjoy by being part of this process that it makes the experience of owning their own company that much richer,” Mann says. Mann stresses you have to be involved in the political process if you want to protect the industry. “No one is going to come to your rescue except for you,” Mann says. TE

Mann adds you don’t need a political science degree to become an Advocacy Ambassador. “The skill that our membership has that they don’t recognize is so important is their ability to sell,” Mann says. “That is completely transferable into the political spectrum.” Many may assume there are already plenty of people advocating, but Mann says there is a vacuum that needs to be filled.

and have your elected official work on your behalf. It’s only through repeated effort that you begin to see people move in your direction.” Ambassadors are not required to contribute to the NALP PAC or other political fundraisers, but Mann says it is appreciated. “We’re trying very hard through our actions and through our communication to show our membership that when they invest their hard-earned money into something that the government relations department is advocating that it bears fruit,” Mann says. Mann says it is far more important to give of your time so your elected officials know who you are. “Yes, you’re busy,” Mann says. “Yes, you have a business to run. Yes, you’ve got to keep an eye on your profit and loss. You’ve got a million people that you need to get back to. Take the time to invest in your business politically.” WHY YOU SHOULD BECOME AN AMBASSADOR Bray says becoming an ambassador behooves landscape professionals’ businesses. “If they want to have a successful business, they need to make sure that the policies and regulations that they’re operating in are as conducive as possi ble,” Bray says. Bray says thoughtful, proactive, communicative individuals are ideal for the ambassador program. He notes that advocating is not as scary as you think.  KEY TAKEAWAYS ■ NALP’s new Advocacy Ambassador Program builds upon the former Advocacy Contact Team, adding structure, resources, and training to expand member participation in advocacy efforts nationwide. ■ The program empowers members at both the state and federal levels to use their communication and business skills to advance policies that protect and strengthen the landscape industry. ■ While financial contributions are optional, the most valuable invest ment ambassadors can make is their time and presence in building relationships with elected officials.

QUICK-DETACH TANKS

FRONT AXLE STEERING

ELECTRIC HOPPER

The all-new SGLITE is the answer for lawn care operators who want a compact, capable, and cost-effective spreader/sprayer. It’s designed to tackle gated properties, hills, and tight areas with ease. The SGLITE measures 36” wide, 68” long, and 52” tall and weighs just 600 pounds empty, allowing for easy transport. INTRODUCING

Scan to meet the SGLITE

steelgreenmfg.com

(765) 481–2890

@SteelGreenMFG

National Association of Landscape Professionals 19