First question usually asked is, "What is HTPA?" HTPA stands for Hydro Turf Planters Association. The idea for a Hydromulching/Hydroseeding Association started after Hydro Planting Contractors became members of several local and National Associations, but as a Hydro Planting Contractor these Associations didn't meet our needs. Several contractors approached local heavy hitters in the industry and asked why they had not started a Hydroseed related Association. In April 1998 a local distributor came up with a installation process, and wanted to form an Association to unite and certify members. Several contractors at the meeting felt that this did not go far enough to include everyone in the industry.

Out of these concerns a meeting was held at the Texas A&M Research Center July 7, 1998. The meeting was attended by several contractors, distributors, and educators. At the meeting, months of discussion about the formation of an Association, education, training, certification, public education, and the future of the Hydro Planting Contractor was voiced by all in attendance. A vote was taken and it was agreed that there was a need for an Association. The first step was to elect a Founding Board of Directors. The Founding Board dealt with the legal establishment of the Association, Constitution, By-laws, Code of Ethics, and most importantly the naming of the Association.

HTPA is now ready! Ready to achieve the goals and concerns of its membership; to reach these goals through new alignments between contractors, customers, distributors, and educators and to increase public awareness of the industry, train and certify members in proper planting techniques, and sponsor research in the development of new grasses. We strive to make a difference and to increase professionalism. By offering certification programs, seminars, and workshops HTPA can educate and increase professionalism. Through networks with contractors, distributors, and educators new ideas and techniques can be discovered, and benefiting from HTPA funded research.

We have a common goal and united we may achieve greater success than alone!