Byron Wates Award and Winners
The Byron Wates Awards was created from the namesake of association founding father, Byron Ernest Wates, Sr. Byron began his family owned landscape business, Area Landscaping, Inc. in 1953 and was a leader in the local landscape industry rallying support for issues of the industry at the time. He first became a member of the NVNA (previous name of Northern Virginia Nurseryman’s Association) at the beginning of association inception in 1957. He served on several committees as well as served as President.
The award was first presented by his Son, Byron Wates, Jr. in 1993 and was created to recognize those who have outstanding contributions and dedication to our association and industry. Those individuals have dedicated great time and talents to promote education, events and business growth. Without their help our association would cease to move forward.
Byron’s involvement was monumental and years later after his family members took over the business and they continue his legacy of service. His son Byron Ernest Wates, Jr. and Granddaughter Amy Wates Ordonez continue to serve on the Board of the NVNLA to this current day.
