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

Please note that the information on pesticide usage in the above study is specific for the late 1990s. Pesticide use in Christmas trees has been radically reduced since then! For more information on current use, see FAQ: Pesticides Used in Christmas Tree Production.

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

The effects of pesticide use on wildlife is unknown. However, Christmas tree production also creates habitat for wildlife — far more than any other agricultural commodity grown in the mountains. For every Christmas tree there is about 25 feet² of greenspace for wildlife. As the industry continues to shift away from toxic, broad-spectrum materials such as Thiodan and Di-Syston, the effects of pesticide use on wildlife continue to decline.

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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.

Environment FAQ's Home | Pesticides Used in Christmas Trees | Health Concerns about Pesticide Use
Pesticide Application | Environmental Impacts

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

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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

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Web Crafter: Anne S. Napier and Jill R. Sidebottom
Email: jill_sidebottom@ncsu.edu

Updated November, 2011