FNGLA Northeast Chapter Member Recognition
The FNGLA Northeast Chapter is proud to recognize Jerry Stageman and Patty of Sunset Specialty Groundcover for their recent honor at the 2026 Suwannee CARES Award Celebration in Live Oak.
Presented by the Suwannee River Partnership, the CARES Award recognizes agricultural leaders who demonstrate exceptional environmental stewardship across the Suwannee River Basin. This recognition reflects a longstanding commitment to practices that protect water quality, enhance soil health, and support sustainable land management.
Jerry and Patty have built Sunset Specialty Groundcover into a respected and trusted resource in our region, known for their deep plant knowledge and thoughtful approach to landscape solutions. Their work consistently reflects a balance between horticultural excellence and environmental responsibility.
Through their dedication to sustainable practices and their contributions to the green industry, they exemplify the values that the CARES program was established to honor. Their recognition is not only well deserved, but also a point of pride for our FNGLA Northeast Chapter community.
Please join us in congratulating Jerry and Patty on this outstanding achievement.
Honoring Jerry Stageman at the 2026 FNGLA Convention
Wendell Butler Award Recognition
The FNGLA Northeast Chapter is proud to share that Jerry Stageman of Sunset Specialty Groundcover will be recognized at the 2026 FNGLA Annual Convention in Coral Gables this June, where he will receive the prestigious Wendell Butler Award.
This distinguished honor recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to Florida’s nursery and landscape industry. Jerry’s selection reflects decades of dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing sustainable plant use across our region and beyond.
Jerry is especially known for his longstanding volunteerism and his leadership in sustainable practices, including his public private partnership with UF| IFAS to introduce perennial peanut as a viable sod alternative across Florida. His work has had a statewide impact, with widespread use throughout the state, especially along highways with steep slopes where it helps prevent erosion, reduce water consumption, and minimize maintenance needs in areas that are otherwise difficult and unsafe to manage.
The FNGLA Annual Convention, held June 25 through June 27, 2026, at The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, brings together professionals from across the state to celebrate achievements, engage in professional development, and strengthen industry connections. Great block room rates!
Call to Attend and Show Your Support
We encourage all Northeast Chapter members to attend this year’s convention to support Jerry as he receives this well deserved recognition, while also taking advantage of the opportunity to connect with colleagues from across Florida.
Register to attend the FNGLA Annual Convention here:
https://fngla.org/fngla-annual-convention-registration
Attending the convention is a meaningful way to celebrate excellence within our chapter while building relationships, gaining insight into industry trends, and representing Northeast Florida on a statewide stage.
Please join us in congratulating Jerry on this outstanding achievement, and we hope to see many of you in Coral Gables this June.
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