About FVMA
A 501(c)(3) Organization
Our Founding Story
The Florida Vegetation Management Association (FVMA) was founded in early 1999 by Andy Lewis and Tracy Maxwell. Recognizing a need for accessible training and continuing education credits for herbicide applicators, they sought to fill a critical gap in the industry.
This need was underscored by the discontinuation of an annual training event previously sponsored by Walter Dykes of Florida Power Corporation in Bartow, Florida. After discussing their vision for an expanded program, Lewis and Maxwell met with Dykes, who gave his blessing and support. Together, they agreed to continue the annual meeting, marking the genesis of the Florida Vegetation Management Association.
Our Mission
Training Applicators: Practical field-skills training and continuing education credits for state licensing requirements
Supporting Leaders: Educational forum for supervisors and managers on regulations, technologies, and industry developments
Provide comprehensive training and educational resources to the vegetation management industry through:
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Our Vision
Comprehensive vegetation maintenance program education
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Hands-on training for field applicators before spray season
Minimize financial impact with efficient, condensed training
How Our Program Evolved
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Initial Vision: Single-Day Applicator Training
Our initial focus was on delivering information about comprehensive vegetation maintenance programs, including hands-on training for field applicators. We strategically scheduled meetings before spray season, condensing training into a single day to minimize employer costs.
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Current Format: Comprehensive 2-Day Conference
Day 1: Field demonstrations in the morning, educational presentations in the afternoon, followed by an informal evening social for sponsors and managers.
Day 2: Presentations for supervisors and managers, plus product updates from valued sponsors.
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Sponsor Integration & Industry Showcase
We recognize the importance of our sponsors and provide them with opportunities to showcase developments in their respective fields and interact directly with meeting participants.
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Expansion: Second Day for Supervisors & Managers
As our organization evolved, we expanded our programming to include a second day dedicated to the needs of supervisors and managers. This day addresses more technical and managerial topics, providing valuable insights and updates.
Board of Directors
Lindon Deal
At Large #3
LD
Coming soon
Thomas Krezewinski
At Large #4
TK
Coming soon
Josh Roark
Contractor/Supplies
JR
Coming soon
Buck Lowery
Electric 1
BL
Coming soon
Josh Campbell
Natural Resources- Uplands
JC
Coming soon