Short Course, OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals’ annual conference and trade show, will remain in Columbus, Ohio, for 2017 and 2018. The show also will be held in Ohio’s capital city for 2014, 2015 and 2016.
This announcement comes shortly after the unveiling of AmericanHort, the newly-created trade association that will be producing the event. AmericanHort will take root Jan. 1, following the formal consolidation of OFA and the American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA).
After a nationwide site selection process that involved evaluating convention facilities, hotel rates and availability, travel ease, guest safety and growth opportunities, Columbus, Pittsburgh and St. Louis were identified as the top contenders for 2017 and 2018. Columbus ranked favorably in all evaluated areas. Investments being made to the city’s downtown area also played a role in its selection.
“With the consolidation of OFA and ANLA to form AmericanHort, Short Course is expected to see significant growth as it serves more horticulture professionals,” said Michael Geary, AmericanHort president and CEO. “The Columbus Convention Center has the necessary exhibit and meeting space as we aggressively plan for Short Course growth.”
