The Texas A&M Department of Horticultural Sciences has announced establishment of the Texas Horticulture Industry Advisory Council — a coalition of leaders representing one of the state’s most diverse and economically significant sectors.
The council brings together voices from across Texas’ $70 billion horticulture industry. This includes the green industry – nursery and landscape plants; Christmas trees; ornamentals – floral producers; pecan and olive growers; and potato producers. Additionally, council members represent the wine industry, fruit and vegetable producers, and the rapidly expanding controlled-environment horticulture sector.
Amit Dhingra, Ph.D., head of the Department of Horticultural Sciences, said the council is designed to ensure academic expertise and research priorities remain closely aligned with real-world industry needs.
“This council is a reflection of how vital horticulture is to Texas’ economy and quality of life,” Dhingra said. “By bringing together the state’s horticultural leaders, we’re aligning our academic expertise with the needs of industry to fuel innovation and long-term success through mission-aligned student training.”
The council held its inaugural meeting on Nov. 21.
Horticulture in Texas is represented by a broad spectrum of dynamic industries from fresh produce, fruit and nuts to wine, landscape ornamentals and trees. The advisory council brings together industry representatives to align Department of Horticultural Sciences priorities that address challenges and meet producers’ strategic goals. (Michael Miller, Sam Craft/Texas A&M AgriLife)
Charting the future of Texas horticulture
The council will collaborate with the department to develop a Texas Horticulture Technology Roadmap — a comprehensive strategy identifying opportunities, challenges and research priorities for the future of Texas horticulture. The roadmap will serve as a foundation for policy guidance, curriculum updates, workforce initiatives and funding strategies across various industry sectors.
Beyond strategic planning, the council will provide guidance on student recruitment, curriculum development, scholarships and internship partnerships to strengthen the next generation of horticultural professionals. Members will advise on capacity-building needs and support the department’s development and philanthropic efforts to strengthen facilities and infrastructure.
“Horticulture touches every corner of Texas, and the insight this group brings will help amplify the impact of our teaching, research and extension efforts,” said Jeffrey W. Savell. Ph.D., vice chancellor and dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences. “When we align our strengths with the needs of industry, we open the door for innovation that benefits Texans today and builds a stronger workforce for tomorrow.”
A working council with a tangible impact
Council membership includes executive directors, current and incoming presidents of commodity organizations, and representatives from the Texas Department of Agriculture. The group will meet twice a year — each fall and spring — to evaluate progress and identify new action items.
“With this advisory council, we’re building a framework that’s responsive and forward-looking,” Dhingra said. “Together, we represent a force to be reckoned with — an engine that powers the state’s economy and contributes to sustainability, wellness and food security for Texans.”
