Los Angeles Association of Professional Landmen History The Los Angeles Association of Professional Landmen LAAPL was formed in 1957 by Los Angeles area land managers. LAAPL serves to further the education and broaden the scope of the petroleum landman and to promote effective communication between its members and government community and industry on energyrelated issues. Among the purposes of the association which is a member of the American Association of Professional Landmen established one year earlier is to cultivate cordial relations among members through meetings and social and recreational events. Speaker programs seminars and an annual West Coast Land Institute insured a high level of education available to professionals practicing in the region.