Capitol Day 2026

GGIA Capital Day was held on Tuesday, February 17, 2027, bringing together a strong coalition of industry leaders, students, and partners at the Georgia State Capitol. This year’s plants—beautiful, vibrant spider plants—were purchased by Thunderwood Farms and grown out by the UGA Horticulture Club, showcasing both the strength of Georgia’s green industry and the next generation of horticulture professionals. Classic Ground Covers graciously handled delivery to the Capitol, and Mize Farm and Garden supplied the pots, helping ensure every plant was presentation-ready and reflective of the quality our members represent every day.

We were proud to welcome a large and engaged group, including students from the UGA Horticulture Club, UGA Agricultural Economics, and Gwinnett Technical College, alongside GGIA board members and legislative committee members. Their presence highlighted the full pipeline of our industry—from education and workforce develo

pment to business leadership and advocacy. These conversations with legislators and staff were grounded in real stories from the field, reinforcing the importance of horticulture, nursery, and landscape businesses to Georgia’s economy and communities.

Special thanks go to Chairman Robert Dickey for graciously allowing GGIA to set up in front of his office, and to Representative Jutt Howard for recognizing GGIA with a House Resolution. We were also honored to have Commissioner Tyler Harper stop by to visit with our group and see firsthand the impact of Georgia-grown plants and the people behind them. Their support continues to strengthen the connection between policymakers and the professionals who steward Georgia’s green spaces and agricultural landscapes.

Throughout the day, GGIA members and students visited offices across the Capitol, including the Governor’s Office, Lieutenant Governor’s Office, Speaker’s Office, and the offices of the Members of the General Assembly in both the Senate and the House. In addition to legislative visits, we also delivered plants to key regulatory agencies that directly impact the green industry, including the Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Environmental Protection Division, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and the Georgia Insurance Commissioner’s Office. We are grateful to the Georgia Agribusiness Council and all partners who helped make the day possible. It was a meaningful opportunity to share our story, express appreciation for legislative leaders, and demonstrate the vitality and unity of Georgia’s green industry.