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Christmas Tree Production
and the Environment

FAQ: Environmental Impacts of
Christmas Tree Farms

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What are the impacts of pesticides and fertilizers on streams in the area of Christmas tree production?

In 1998 and 1999, streams below five Christmas tree farms were monitored to determine the effect of Christmas tree production on stream quality. Little impact was documented. In fact, one Christmas tree farm that had been in continuous production since the mid-l950s had some of the best water quality. For information on this see Evaluation of the Christmas Tree Industry in Western North Carolina Effects on Surface Water Quality. http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/fletcher/programs/xmas/environment/water_summary.html
PDF : http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/fletcher/programs/xmas/environment/water_summary.pdf

What are the effects of these pesticides on wildlife and farm animals grazing nearby?

Pesticides can adversely affect wildlife. However, Christmas tree production also creates habitat for wildlife — far more than any other agricultural commodity grown in the mountains. Christmas tree production also brings in enough returns that the land is kept in production and isn't sold for developments, which certainly benefits wildlife.

For more information on pesticides used on Christmas trees see http://ipm.ncsu.edu/wildlife/christmas_trees_wildlife.html.

Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by North Carolina Cooperative Extension nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. For assistance, contact your county Cooperative Extension agent.

Prepared by Jill Sidebottom, Ph.D.
Area Extension Forestry Specialist, Mountain Conifer IPM
NCSU College of Natural Resources
NC Cooperative Extension Service

Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Extension Center
455 Research Drive
Mills River, NC 28759
Phone: 828.684.3562 ~ Fax: 828.684.8715
Email: jill_sidebottom@ncsu.edu

Web Crafter: Anne S. Napier ~ Email: anne_napier@ncsu.edu

Updated November 14, 2008

Christmas Tree Production and the Environment

FAQ: Environmental Impacts of Christmas Tree Farms

What are the impacts of pesticides and fertilizers on streams in the area of Christmas tree production?

What are the effects of these pesticides on wildlife and farm animals grazing nearby?

Christmas Tree Production
and the Environment

FAQ: Environmental Impacts of
Christmas Tree Farms