Turfgrass Producers International (TPI) Elects Arthur Milberger President
Arthur Milberger, of Turfgrass America, Bay City, TX was elected President of Turfgrass Producers International (TPI) at its summer convention and field day in Memphis, TN in July. The 1,100-member association represents turfgrass producers throughout the world.
Milberger stated that he plans to emphasize greater cooperation between TPI and state and regional organizations and wants to ensure the involvement of international members. He cited the drought study in San Antonio as a prime example of what can be accomplished when TPI works with state organizations such as the Turfgrass Producers of Texas. He feels that this project will have far reaching effects in the industry.
“We have 180 international members and we want to make sure they are represented in TPI.” Milberger stated. He points to the TPI meeting in Australia as proof that the association is reaching out to growers throughout the world.
When asked why he became involved with TPI, Milberger stated that he wanted to share ideas with other growers. “My neighbor may not talk to me but growers from other states are willing to share their thoughts. What happens in the halls during the meetings is sometimes more important than the speakers’ presentations.”, he stated.
He says he gets some of his best ideas from growers who have not been in the business as long as he has. “They do things differently and sometimes they work,” he added.
Throughout his career Milberger has served on numerous TPI committees—including Director of the International Turf Producers Foundation (ITPF), Water Policy Vice Chair, PR Committee Chair, TPI Representatives Committee and most recently as Vice President.
His industry leadership roles have included holding such prestigious positions as TifEagle Growers Association President, Texas Turfgrass Association President, Texas Sod Producers Association President and he has served as a member of the Texas A&M College of Ag. Development Council.
In his non-turf industry leadership roles, he has served as governor-appointed board member of Lower Colorado River Authority, a Board Member for the Jackson Electric Co-op and he has served as a Board Trustee of the Holy Cross Catholic School Foundation. Milberger and his wife Sue have three children: Regay, Lesley and Whitney.