IA hires state affairs director

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – The Irrigation Association has hired Chad Forcey as its state affairs director.

Forcey, who has more than a dozen years of experience in government affairs, environmental policy and legislative work, will continue IA’s support of state, local and regional issues that affect irrigation professionals.

“Chad’s experience with turf, landscape and even agriculture issues make him an ideal fit for the Irrigation Association,” said John Farner, IA federal affairs director. “He spent the last six years as the director of government relations for the Pennsylvania Landscape and Nursery Association. Chad currently serves as a member of the Penn State Ag Council and on U.S. Senator Bob Casey’s Ag Advisory Team. His knowledge and understanding of our industry’s needs has allowed him to jump right in.”

At PLNA, Forcey fought for the rights of small business owners on matters of independent contractor status, tax policy, statewide water planning and invasive species. His background  includes, serving as a staff member in the Virginia House of Delegates, as the personal assistant to Pennsylvania Lt. Governor Mark Schweiker and as a legislative liaison for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.