Lobbyists: Why, When, How

In an interview, Michael Canning, Sr. of Manis-Canning and Associates, a governmental affairs specialist and senior lobbyist in Annapolis, Md., and Washington, D.C., (www.maniscanning.com) stated that organizations at the grassroots level should pool their resources and be represented by a lobbying organization.

“In Maryland,” said Canning, “the green industry came together to work on public policy as it related to the drought issue.” Canning said that the green industry and other representative businesses and organizations united to give weight and credibility to the drought issue that plagued Maryland in late 2001 through the summer of 2002.

He recommends that grassroots, green industry businesses everywhere do the same, regardless of geography. “The key is to speak with one voice,” said Canning. “You must look in the area of shared common interests and begin your work under one umbrella.”

Canning recommends being inclusive and calling on related industries in your area to bring together anyone and everyone who has an interest in drought-related and environmental/ water conservation issues.

These businesses can include the following:

Canning also notes that product manufacturers, such as fertilizer companies, might already have a contract with a lobbyist in the region who can bring that expertise to a coalition. Tapping into existing resources is key to maximizing both budgetary and legislative concerns.