National LICA’s virtual committee meetings continued throughout May and June, bringing together land improvement contractors, Associate members, Executive Directors, and industry partners from across the country to discuss the issues, challenges, and opportunities impacting our industry.
The conversations have covered a wide range of topics, from contractor safety and member engagement to agricultural drainage, water management, conservation practices, workforce development, and emerging opportunities for contractors.
The Insurance & Safety Committee spent time discussing ways to make LICA’s Safety Portal more accessible and easier for contractors to use. Members reviewed efforts to simplify access to safety documents, toolbox talks, compliance resources, and other materials designed to help contractors strengthen their safety programs, improve construction safety awareness, and protect their businesses.
The Water Management & Quality Committee generated a great deal of discussion around agricultural drainage, drainage infrastructure, conservation drainage, field drainage systems, and the growing presence of solar development in agricultural areas. Contractors shared firsthand experiences working on solar farm drainage projects, navigating changing regulations, and adapting drainage systems to meet the demands of large-scale developments.
“It’s big business,” said Jon Seevers. “Like them or not, they’re here to stay.”
The discussion also looked at what these projects may mean for contractors long-term. While construction often gets the attention, committee members noted that maintenance and ongoing site management may create significant opportunities in the years ahead.
“The biggest boom for our contractors moving forward will be maintenance,” said James Ramsey.
Committee members also shared updates on upcoming events, including Indiana LICA’s Field Day on July 21-22, which will feature drainage demonstrations, educational sessions, and a trench rescue demonstration focused on agricultural infrastructure and jobsite safety.
The Membership Committee focused on member engagement, retention, and increasing awareness of the many benefits available through National LICA. Committee members discussed the challenge of making sure contractors understand and utilize the programs already available through their membership, including the GM Fleet Program, Caterpillar Association Discount Program, and ConEquip Parts Program. The conversation centered on improving awareness, communicating value, and helping members take advantage of contractor benefits that can have a direct impact on their businesses.
One thing that continues to stand out across every committee meeting is the willingness of members to share their experiences. Whether discussing contractor safety, agricultural drainage, business challenges, regulations, workforce development, or new opportunities, the conversations continue to provide practical insight from people who do the work every day.
The spring virtual committees may be coming to a close, but we're just getting started. The Summer Committee Meeting Schedule is now available on LICANational.org. Take a look, find a committee that interests you, and join the conversation. The best ideas often come from contractors sharing real-world experience with other contractors, and we would love to have you be part of it. See you this summer.