Coalition focuses on growing practices for Christmas trees

Holiday Tree Farms in Corvallis, Ore., and Yule Tree Farms in Canby, Ore., are looking for Christmas tree growers to join their Coalition of Environmentally Conscious Growers.

Growers who join the coalition will be certified for using a set of production standards.

Environmental criteria includes:

* Riparian/wetland management: Protection of adjacent waterways.

* Soil and water conservation: Effective use of protective barriers, filter strips and proper cultivating techniques.

* Nutrient management: Proper use of fertilizers and soil amendments.

* Pest management: Monitoring and controlling pests with the least toxic process and minimizing chemical use.

* Worker safety: Providing proper equipment and training for a healthy and safe workplace.

* Biodiversity: Protection and enhancement of diverse wildlife in the fields and bacteria, fungi and insects in the soil.

Certified trees will be marked with a special hangtag.

“We are proud to offer our members and their customers the opportunity to be recognized as eco-friendly,” said Joseph Sharp, owner of Yule Tree Farms.

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For more: Holiday Tree Farms, (541) 929-5280; www.holidaytreefarm.com. Yule Tree Farms, (607) 324-5374; www.yuletreefarms.com.