VCTGA_FALL18 NL

Volume 8, Issue 4

Fall 2018

Inside this Issue: From the President – 3 Tree/Wreath Contest – 5 Photos Annual Conference ‒ 6 Scholarship Recipients ‒ 7 Agribusiness Letter ‒ 8 Ag In The Classroom ‒ 9 Thanks to Sponsors – 10 How Safe is Your Farm? – 11 CTPB & NCTAUpdates ‒ 13 Farm Liability Sign ‒ 14 Millennial Families Target for CTPB Campaign – 16 VCTGA Facebook Group –17 Real Christmas Tree Supply –18 Tips Speaking with Media – 20 Mentoring Program – 21 Update Your Free Mini-Webpage – 22 VCTGATree Price/Care Tags – 23 Advertisers Purcell Manufacturing ‒ 2 Alpha Nurseries − 5 DS Smith 9 Bosch’s Countryview Nursery – 9 TreeTeck – 13 VirginiaGrown.com – 15 Riverside Enterprises ‒ 19 Kelco ‒ 19 Farm Credit of The Virginias – 21 Tim Mitchell’s Yule Stand System − 23 Wagoner’s Fraser Knoll ‒ 24

2018 Tree & Wreath Contest Winners

Above Left: Secretary of Agriculture & Forestry, Bettina Ring (1) presents Grand Champion Christmas Tree Award to Dave and Barbara Thomas, Valley Star Farm. Right: Kelly Raymond with her Grand Champion Christmas Wreath.

VCTGA Farm Tour at Hidden Fields Farm, Covington, VA - Robert & Cecilia McDowell

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the Christmas season will serve in everyone’s best interest. If you were not able to attend the VCTGA Annual Meeting this past August in Natural Bridge, you missed a good one! Attendance was up from last year - the high- est in the past several years. A special thanks goes to VCTGA Vice President, John Carroll, and others who put together an in- formative and educational pro- gram. We were especially pleased to have several new member farms in attendance . We welcome their joining our industry and wish them all the best for their future success. We are looking at having the 2019 Annual Meeting return to Blacksburg where we will be able to call on the resources of Virginia Tech for an even more educational experience. Please pencil in on your calendars a few days in the first two weeks of Au- gust for next year’s meeting. Speaking of new farms, Paris Rasnic has an excellent com- mentary on mentoring included in this Journal. I hope you will take a little of your time to volun- teer to visit and talk with some of our new members. Nothing takes the place of experience and help- ing our new members avoid mak- ing mistakes early on which will go a long way towards their ulti- mate success as a producer. Please let Jeff Miller know if you are willing to participate. Thanks to new director Ryan Clouse for setting up a VCTGA members only Facebook page. Instructions on how to join are included in this Journal. This page

VCTGA News Journal Contributing and Coordinating Editors VDACS Support & Updates Danny Neel Grant Updates Greg Lemmer Editor in Chief - Jeff Miller Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association Inc. 383 Coal Hollow Rd. Christiansburg, VA 24073-6721 PH: 540-382-7310 Fax: 540-382-2716 secretary@VirginiaChristmasTrees.org www.VirginiaChristmasTrees.org Disclaimer: Published for your information, this newsletter is not an endorsement for individual products or editorial comments. will serve as a place for members to exchange ideas, ask questions, post equipment for sale and just generally share industry infor- mation. Under the “Files” section we have already posted several documents or “white papers” that will be of interest. It is very sim- ple to join so let’s build up the participation so we have another tool for members to take ad- vantage of in growing their busi- ness. That’s all for now. Good luck this season and as always, let us know if you have any ideas on how VCTGA can better serve you…our members. Jeff Gregson, President VCTGA 2016-18 Jeff Gregson President VCTGA 2016-18

From the President

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Good day all. I hope everyone had a good summer which, for most of us, meant keeping a close eye on the weather radar and try- ing to get work done in between the rain storms. We are well into the Fall and getting everything in order for the Christmas selling season. PLEASE take a moment to read the article from the National Christmas Tree Association re- garding the tight market condi- tions for trees this season. It is important to remember that we are the face of the industry in dealing with the public and it is critical that we try as best we can to remain positive. Our customers need to be assured that everyone who wants a REAL TREE will be able to have one. Sending a posi- tive message going forward into

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Pines 1 st place Dave Thomas Valley Star Farm, Luray (Grand Champion) 2 nd place Robert O’Keeffe Rifton Farm & Nursery, Floyd Judges: Terry Smiley, Jake Bostic and Bill Francisco

2018 Tree & Wreath Contests

Increased participation in this year’s wreath contest made for an exciting annual VTCGA event at the August meeting at Natural Bridge. We are hoping to see even more entries next year. Thanks to all our judges and participants. Also, thanks to Tommy Naylor for a successful wreath work- shop – two of this year’s wreath winners were participants in the workshop.

Wreath Contest Winners

Thanks to Robert O’Keeffe for Chairing the Contest! Welcome to these New VCTGA Members! • William and Kelly Raymond, Midlothian • Meredith and James Cliett, Four Gen Farms, Front Royal • Sheryl and Richard Pal- mateer, Belle Rock Farm, Kents Store Thanks to Robert O’Keeffe for Chairing the Contest!

2018 Tree contest winners

Firs 1 st place John Houston - Sweet Prov- idence Farm, Floyd 2 nd place Richard Kreh - Ayers Kreh Christmas Tree Farm

Kelly Raymond with her Grand Champion Christmas Wreath Undecorated wreaths 1 st place Kelly Raymond , Midlothian, Grand Champion 2 nd place Samantha Gilreath, Joe’s Trees, Craig County 3 rd place Lori Grove, Caritas Tree Farm, Mt. Solon Decorated wreaths 1 st place Cecille McDowell, Hidden Fields Farm, Covington 2 nd place - Samantha Gilreath , Joe’s Trees, Craig County Judges : John Houston, Teresa Guill and Paris Rasnic

Secretary of Agriculture & Forestry, Bettina Ring (l) presents Grand Champion Christmas Tree Award to Dave and Barbara Thomas, Valley Star Farm

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ALPHA NURSERIES, INC 3737 –65 TH ST. HOLLAND, MI 49423

Fall 2018- Spring 2019

Phone: 269 - 857-7804 Fax: 269 857-8162 Email: info@alphanurseries.com Find us on the web at: www.alphanurseries.com

Spruce

Pine, Other Evergreens

Per Per

Per Per

Species

Size Age 100 1000

Species

Size Age 100 1000

Colorado Bl. Spruce

White Pine

9-15" 2-0 10-18" 2-1

$43 $225 $93 $580 $117 $735 $164 $1,025 $44 $230 $94 $590 $132 $825 $176 $1,100 $42 $220 $90 $565 $144 $900

4-8"

2-0 2-0

$37 $195 $51 $270 $108 $675 $200 $1,250 $40 $210 $92 $575 $116 $725 $144 $900

8-12"

Picea pungens 'glauca'

Pinus strobus

Kaibab, San Juan 12-18" 2-2 *

Lake States

10-18" 2-1 18-24" 2-2

Misty Blue *

18-24" 2-2 *

* - Add $75/1000

Norway Spruce

Red Pine

10-18" 2-0 14-20" 2-1 16-24" 2-2 24-36" 2-2 10-18" 2-0 12-18" 2-1 20-30" 2-2

7-10" 8-14" 8-16"

2-0 2-1 2-2

Picea abies

Pinus resinosa

Lake States

Lake States

16-24" 2-3

White Spruce

Austrian Pine

4-7"

2-0 2-0

$33 $175 $44 $230

7-10"

Picea glauca

Lake States

Scotch Pine

6-10"

2-0

$33 $175 $42 $220

Serbian Spruce

9-15" 2-1 12-24" 2-2

$100 $625 $144 $900

10-18" 2-0

Pinus sylvestris

Scots Highland, Guadarrama, French, East Anglia

Picea omorika

Germany Black Hills Spruce

Ponderosa Pine

7-14" 2-1 14-20" 2-2

$100 $625 $140 $875

6-12"

2-0

$47 $245

Picea glauca 'densata'

Pinus ponderosa

Black Hills, SD

Black Hills N.F.

Fir

American Larch

12-18" 2-0 18-30" 2-0 30-42" 2-0

$90 $560 $116 $725 $144 $900

Fraser Fir

7-12" P+1 12-16" P+2

$124 $775 $184 $1,150

Larix laricina

Ontario

Abies fraseri

Roan Mountain

Green Giant Arb's

7-14" RC+1 $176 $1,100

Balsam Fir

6-12" P+1 8-12" P+2

$108 $675 $132 $825 $156 $975 $63 $330 $96 $600 $140 $875

Thuja plicata 'Green Giant'

Abies balsamea

Nova Scotia, Lake States 12-16" P+2

White Cedar

8-15" 2-0, 3-0 $53 $280

Concolor Fir

10-15" 2-0 8-14" 2-1 10-18" 2-2

8-14"

2-1

$102 $635 $176 $1,100

Thuja occidentalis

Michigan

18-24" 2-2

Abies concolor

San Isabel, Cibola

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Canaan Fir

8-16" P+1 10-18" P+2

$126 $790 $156 $975

Abies balsamea var. phanerolipsis

West Virginia

Douglas Fir:

10-18" 2-0 10-20" 2-1

$43 $225 $96 $600 $140 $875

Pseudotsuga menziesii glauca

Lincoln, Rio Grande 20-30" 2-2

Korean Fir:

8-14" P+2

$144 $900

Abies koreana

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Scenes from the VCTGA Annual Conference & Farm Tour

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VCTGA Scholarship Recipients

Molly Hunt from Stuart , VA is a recipient of a $1,000 VCTGA Scholar- ship for the 2018-19 academic year. She is planning on graduating from Virginia Tech in May 2019 with a de- gree in Forestry Resource Manage- ment. At Patrick County High School, she was a team member of the Nursery Landscape State Competitions for 4 years and the Forestry Team. Her vol- unteer/community activities include the Dan River Basin Association trash clean-up, became a Earth Team Volun- teer while shadowing NRCS District Soil and Water Conservationist, “Op- eration In-As-Much” missionary vol- unteer at Stuart Baptist Church, volun- teer to help harvest firewood for the VA Tech Forestry Club, as well as demonstrated timbersports for WDBJ7 News report and was interviewed to promote the “Timber Beast” Tim- bersports Competition hosted by VA Tech. Scholarship Essay My biggest career goal is to work for the Virginia Department of Forestry. My favorite activity has been to ex- plore the woods ever since I was a child. I am a person who can either walk or sit in the woods for hours to just observe the beauty of nature. I have always felt at home in the woods, an deer and turkey hunting became a favorite hobby of mine at a young age. The part that fascinates me the most about the forest ecosystem is land management practices that humans need to know to use the wilderness in the most practical ways. Using our land and valuable resources in the most sustainable way has become my primary interest in life. Another career goal I have is potentially working for the NRCS through the United States Department of Agriculture. My true passion is to help people, conserve our beautiful environment, and to make a positive impact. My dream is to make my impact by helping people help the land through my career.

I am in need for financial assistance to achieve my goal for a few reasons. In December of 2012, I had a major Tho- racic Outlet Syndrome surgery after eighteen months of traveling to doctors who were trying to diagnose my wors- ening condition. This was a financially stringent time due to insurance co- payments and transportation to medi- cal appointments out of town. I also had to go through five months of phys- ical therapy after my surgery. In August of 2013 my oldest sister had emergency brain surgery. Once again, transportation and medical costs caused my parents financial stress. My sister was living with my parents at the time and was unemployed. While my

parents currently help pay my rent, I pay my own utility bills, phone bill, grocery expenses, clothing costs, gas expenses and vehicle maintenance. My parents are also paying college loans for my middle sister and will be for several more years. Therefore, hav- ing as much financial assistance as possible would be a great help to my family. I may be receiving aid from FAFSA, and I will be applying for scholarships that my church will pro- vide. I am also receiving student loans currently. Molly Hunt VCTGA Scholarship Recipient Joe Mills from Vienna , VA is an-

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other recipient of a $1,000 VCTGA Scholarship for the 2018-19 academ- ic year. He is planning on graduating in May 2019 with a degree in Land- scape Horticulture and Design. At James Madison High School, he was a member of the marching band drumline, the concert band percus- sion and a drummer in the Jazz En- semble. At Virginia Tech, Joe has served as the Treasurer of the Horticulture Club and the Plant Sale Chair. He has also participated in the National Collegiate Landscape Competition for the last 3 years. Essay: I Am In Love With The Landscape Industry When I was four years old, I remem- ber how I loved watching my father cut the grass outside our living room window. It was fascinating! When- ever he started the mower up, I was glued to the window. Ever since then, I knew being a part of the land- scape industry was what I wanted to do as a career. In eighth grade, my mother suggested I should consider studying horticulture in college and that’s when I discovered Virginia Tech, where I am today. In high school, I threw myself in the indus- try, not only working at a large gar- den center, ut also starting my own landscape maintenance company. I started with nothing and managed to grow the business to 26 regular cli- ents and commercial equipment. I managed all the business affairs my- self and even hired my friends as employees. In August 2015, I sold my customer list and some of my equipment and began my journey at Virginia Tech. I have learned more than I ever thought I would. I have connected with may people like me, who are passionate about the horti- culture industry and are passionate about their own success. During this time, I also started my own YouTube channel about my experiences in the

landscape industry. I share advice as well as show examples of my work. I’ve filmed all my internships on a week to week basis and summarized what I worked on., what I learned and what I enjoyed. This has con- nected me with may landscape pro- fessionals, who will ask for my opin- ion and advice about their own busi- ness. The reason I am deserving of this scholarship is because I feel I am one of the most passionate and enthusias- tic young professionals stepping into this career field today. Unlike may of my friends in other majors at Virgin- ia Tech, I could not be more excited to graduate and begin my profession- al life. I am ready to dive head-first into the industry and make a name for myself. However, I have another year to complete my studies. This scholarship would be used to help pay for tuition for my last year of college. I would greatly appreciate this scholarship, as it would ease the financial burden on my father. I would like to contribute to my educa- tional expenses as much I can, so this scholarship would allow me to make a bigger impact than I have been able to. Thanks for your consideration of me for the Virginia Christmas Tree Growers Association scholarship. I am thankful for the opportunity to apply and I hope you can see that I am a strong candidate for the schol- arship. Joe Mills Virginia Agribusiness Member Letter Thank you for renewing your member- ship in the Virginia Agribusiness Council. Your ongoing support enables the Council to represent our industry with a unified voice. Each year, our membership and impact continues to grow as more of your fellow industry members recognize the benefits of

working together to advance the busi- ness interests of agriculture and forest- ry producers, processors, manufactur- ers, retailers, and suppliers. As we welcome a new administration and many new faces to the General Assembly this year, it is even more critical that Council members com- municate with their elected representa- tives to educate them about the im- portance of the agribusiness industry. We are excited to continue hosting a variety of social and legislative events throughout the commonwealth in 2018, which we hope will include many of these new legislators and cab- inet officials. You can stay up to date on the Council's activities, events, and efforts on your behalf through our communications with you via email, our website, and social media. We kicked off our Membership Drive in March and hope you will help us iden- tify potential members to join our col- lective efforts to advance Virginia's number one industries! We love to hear from our members and welcome your questions, concerns, suggestions or opinions about the Council or current issues. Please feel free to call either of us — Kern Houff (2018 Board Chair) at (540) 810-8030 or Kyle Shreve (Executive Director) at (804) 643-3555. Visit www.va- agribusiness.org to find issue papers and briefings, legislative information, and access the Council's Membership Directory and other member-only in- formation. Your active involvement with the Council provides you tangible benefits from your membership and supports our advocacy efforts as well. Thank you again for your continued commitment to the Council! Sincerely, Kern Houff, 2018 Chair, Board of Direc- tors; Kyle Shreve, Executive Director; 804-643-3555 • vac@va-agibusiness.org • www.va-agribusiness.org

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VCTGA News Journal ‒ Fall 2018 9

for Agriculture in the Classroom". Once again, thank you for your donation. If you are interested in hearing more about our programs or a volunteer opportunities, please feel welcome to contact me at 804-290-1030 or email at kelly.pious@vatb.com .

Thanks from Ag In the Classroom

On behalf of the Virginia Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) thank you for your generous support in helping us connect children to agriculture. We sincerely appreciate your partnership as we promote the awareness and understanding of agri- culture throughout Virginia. It’s gratifying to have financial support from individuals who recognize that agricultural literacy is a powerful way to ensure the future of our farms and the industry that is so important to our nation. Your support makes a difference. We look forward to sharing AITC's suc- cess with you through our annual re- port; information about our progress may also be found on our website at agintheclass.org or our Facebook pag- es "Virginia Agriculture in the Class- room" and "The Virginia Foundation

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FRASER FIR (2-2, PL+2) (2-2, PL+2) (P+2, P+3) BALSAM FIR (2-1, P+1) (2-2, P+2) (P+2, P+3) CANAAN FIR (2-1, P+1) (P+2) (P+2, P+3)

WHITE SPRUCE - Lake States (2-0, 3-0) 9-15”

WHITE PINE - Lake States (2-0, 3-0) 6-12”

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NORWAY SPRUCE - Lake States (2-0, 3-0) 9-15”

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$990.00 ARBORvITAE - *EMERALD, *GREEN GIANT, TECHNY, *DARK GREEN & *PYRAMIDALIS (RC+1) 6-12” $140.00 $890.00 Started out from a rooted cutting *(P+1) 8-14” $165.00 $1500.00 Started out from a 72 cell For complete list please write or call us. Brian Bosch / Owner

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DOUGLAS FIR - Lincoln (2-0, 3-0) 9-15”

SERBIAN SPRUCE (2-0)

$65.00 $100.00

$295.00 $650.00

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$65.00 $135.00

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CONCOLOR FIR (2-0)

AUSTRIAN PINE (2-0)

5-12” 8-14” 10-18”

$65.00 $110.00 $145.00

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6-14”

$75.00

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(2-1, P+1) (2-2, P+2)

$1050.00 COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE - San Juan & Kiabab (2-0, 3-0) 9-15” $65.00 $225.00 (2-1, P+1) 8-14” $100.00 $650.00 (2-2, P+2) 12-18” $135.00 $890.00 (P+2, P+3) 15-24” $160.00 $1500.00

RED PINE - Lake States (2-0, 3-0) 6-14”

$65.00

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VCTGA News Journal – Fall 2018

VCTGA News Journal ‒ Fall 2018 Ad_1_BW_7.5x4.875.indd 1

7/3/18 12:31 PM

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Thanks to these Sponsors & Exhibitors!! 2018 Annual Meeting & Conference

Kubota Tractor Farm Credit of the Virginias

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Southern States Cooperative DS Smith Packaging VDACS - Richmond Virginia Farm Bureau

Spruce Sponsors

First Bank & Trust Vans Pines Nursery

Pine Sponsors

Beverage Tractor - Kubota Farm Credit Fraser Knoll Supply Keystone Holiday H&H Farm Machine Co LaRon Christmas Tree Farm

Exhibitors

Mountain Products VA Tech Extension

VCTGA VDACS

VCTGA News Journal ‒ Fall 2018

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How Safe Is Your Farm?

KEEP OUT signage. Since most choose and cut farms are regarded as agri-tourism we are to be in compli- ance with the Agri-tourism Law that many states have including North Carolina and Virginia. The year we got our signs in NC the wording to me was offensive but still it had to be displayed for all the customers to read. The wording needs to be amended so as not to offend the cus- tomer. Physical features that needs addressing would include the following: The Field Since the last planting season no one but the farm owner and perhaps workers has worked the trees to pre- pare for the next selling season. What remains to be seen is obvious. Stumps. They are everywhere unless the owner has an implement to re- move them from the field. They are hazards since anyone can trip and fall when not seen, especially hard on the mower to. Holes created by burrow- ing animals like ground hogs needs scouting for and remove the animal if possible. Holes can also be created by moles and voles where the tunnel- ing is noticeable. Rocks of any size can be a hazard. (Rock removal should have been done during field preparation. In my part of NC stumps are my biggest issue and another pest I have to deal with is fire ants. Fortu- nately, those of you in Virginia are not affected by these nasty pests that attacks by the thousands when dis- turbed. Stumps are their favorite home to build a mound since it at- tracts warmth. Thankfully, by the selling season fire ants are down in the ground protecting themselves against the cold.

Unmown fields can harbor hazards not seen until work is performed to the field.

By Tommy Naylor Those of us who have farming Christmas trees for years know all too well the hazards that exists on our farms. We are not aware of these hazards until an obstacle faces us that has to be taken care of immediately. This is very true of those of us who are choose and cut growers. In an- other life when I worked in corpo- rate, safety was stressed over and over due to the hazardous nature of the manufacturing facility. Numerous times plant evacuations occurred due to chemical spills and breathing sinus burning gases. At this point I took safety issues seriously. Common sense and wisdom should be the components of life as we age and practicing safety precautions is a ne- cessity. Now that we are nearing the end of another summer, attention needs to be given to those areas that may har- bor dangers. The shearing and trim- ming is done and all that remains is mowing until the first good freeze. Uncovering grasses and weeds can reveal unpleasant hazards such as

stumps, holes and exposed rocks or maybe washouts we didn’t know ex- isted created by summer storms. When we open our farms to visitors, these hazards have to be taken care of before the visitor is accidentally hurt and it could result in a lawsuit. It is the responsibility of the farm own- er to correct the known and unknown problems before the first tree cus- tomer enters the field. We have to ensure the safety of the customers of their duration on the farm. There are a lot of issues we must cover our- selves to prevent accidents from oc- curring. Proper Signage Most visitors or customers may ig- nore instructions or signage to off limit areas where they should not be to start with. However, over the years if proper signage is clear to the cus- tomer and some may ignore it, then the property owner would be protect- ed under law. This may not be true so much in today’s horribly political correct world. Most farms do have areas that are unsafe to be in and should be roped off with POSTED,

VCTGA News Journal ‒ Fall 2018 Page 12

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Farm Buildings Your buildings that commands the most attention to off limit customers would be your pesticide storage shed or building. By law signage is neces- sary to keep out customers from the- se facilities. A workshop is another building that should be off limits where mechanical repairs and work is done on equipment. If greenhouses are part of the farm business these too should be closed especially if there are holiday, seasonal plants growing such as poinsettias and Christmas cactus. They are day length plants meaning certain hours are needed to keep from disrupting equal day and night lighting. Ponds and Lakes Unlike me, most growers do not have a water feature on their tree farm. I am fortunate to have a two and one half acre pond or lake (from which my business is named). Without it I would not have the nursery or tree farm at my disposal. This is my main irrigation source for the nursery and can irrigate much of the tree fields as well when necessary. Many farms locally have lakes and irrigation ponds for the purpose to irrigate to- bacco, soybeans, corn and sweet po- tatoes when needed. They have over the years also been a source of recre- ation for bass and bluegill fishing and sometimes swimming in sum- mer. However, ponds and streams can be a cause for concern when visi- tors come to the farm. Here, it is a must that proper signage be enforced such as DEEP WATER DANGER or OWNER NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS. In most cases the law is on the side of the farm owner if proper signage exists. When the season opens I am con- cerned for families with their chil- dren. My lake is the focal point on the farm and families love the walk around the perimeter especially when the bright , colorful maple leaves are

Ponds and lakes provide beauty to the property, but hazards are there. Signage is important around bodies of water. Ponds and lakes provide beauty to the property, but hazards are there. Signage is important around bodies of water.

shedding from the trees. I also built a forty five foot pier over the water and a short dock at the overflow pipe. This is where the danger lies if children get too close the edge and a accident occurs. I have observed children running off energy too near the water, parents not looking and a tragedy can happen. Fortunately, no accident has occurred. Families and professional photographers uses the pond as a backdrop for family holi- day photographs. It is my responsi- bility to inspect the pier for worn out flooring and anything else that could be a hazard. A pond or lake adds more responsibility and time for safety and upkeep in general than any other part of the farm. Woodland Trails I have several families who make it a tradition after their tree purchase to walk the woodland trails with their small children. For years I developed a system of walking trails for others to enjoy. Here again, liability be- comes an issue. Existing hazards do occur such as running tree roots on top of the ground and fallen logs.

Keeping these trails clear is a winter job and also in the fall before the leaves fall. I have taken the system of marked trails that state and national forests uses to keep walkers on the trails. Paint blazes on trees is done to ensure the walkers are on the right path. My many mountain hikes caus- es me observe the layout of the ter- rain, be it flat or sloping and the presence of natural obstacles such as boulders, logs and large, fallen tree branches. If you have wood lot on your farm keep in mind a trail system since many customers come and want to spend some time for the ex- perience. Hay Rides Some tree farms offers hay rides to add to the adventure of being on a farm or rural setting. I never have nor do I intend to offer such. The liability here is too great. It is the utmost im- portance that tractors and wagons be kept in top operating condition. Be sure the farm paths or roads are in good, solid condition. Farm tractor accidents ranks among the highest occurences on the farm be it for working or pleasure outings.

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Petting Zoos A tree farm may offer petting zoos for adults and children who are not accustomed to being around farm animals. In most cases these are live- stock animals of cows, hogs, sheep, chickens, maybe goats and turkeys. My observation is that most of these animals do not care to be touched and can be alarmed by a sudden sur- prise. Proper fencing is needed to protect the visitors and animals alike from an unpredicted move on the animal’s part. Dogs or no Dogs? Another issue to consider is to allow or not allow dogs on to your farm. Personally, I do not allow dogs, leashed or not on my property. I had a bad experience several years ago when two different customers dogs almost got out of control with each other. Especially with young children it can be a frightening experience. My observation is most dogs are rambunctious, loudly barking and sometimes growling and of course the customer does not consider to clean their messes. If your policy is not to allow dogs or any other type pet on your property, you should strictly enforce it. School Groups Tree farms can be a good educational tool for school age children. I have had several groups over the years but nowadays I get no requests for such. If there are a large group it is hard to keep their attention. I endorse the idea but a staff needs to be on duty. For safety procedures, a waiver has to be signed to release the farm from any claims made as a result of an injury. When I taught and went on field trips with my students, a waiver had to be signed by all students to release the college of any accident. Allowing school groups onto your farm helps advertise your operation.

Word gets out and many locals will find out what it is about. Chain Saws or Bow Saws? Common sense should tell any farm owner not to allow customers to bring their chain saws. This is a huge liability waiting to happen. If cus- tomer chooses a very large tree and the trunk is more than a bow saw can cut, then a chain saw is necessary, but it is I who will do the honors to keep the customer safe. Although bow saws are provided, many will bring their own and this would be acceptable. Last year a customer used his own bow saw and cut him- self and needed medical attention. Here, no fault on the owner, but the customer paid the price. There are other issues that could be covered such as food safety if this is part of the tree farm experience. On this topic the state health department gets involved and this can be no fun when that happens. The topic of farm safety is broad and covers a lot of territory. To limit lia- bility, it is important to make farm safety a non-negotiable priority for yourself and your employees. Be proactive and go out to search for and remove the hazards that may be known or unknown. Routine inspec- tions on hay rides, petting zoos and the like will go a long way to cover yourself of any liability. A plan of operation is helpful to identify haz- ards and have strategic plan to over- come those hazards. One of the worst cases could be a tragedy on a tree farm during the selling season. Any tragedy will be hard to overcome and the unpleasant memory can never be forgotten. By Tommy Naylor, VCTGA Director and owner/operator of North Lake Christmas Tree & Nursery, Benson, NC, te- naylor07@embarqmail.com

CTPB (Christmas Tree Promotion Board) Checkoff Support, Research & Marketing – Della Deal (VCTGA’s representative and chair of the CTBP Research Committee) gave an update noting that the recent referendum passed 51-49% and there will now be another referendum in 2019. $1.8 million dollars was raised in 2017, and there is $200,000 availa- ble for research. She encouraged members to take advantage of the national marketing program “It’s Christmas, Keep It Real” At a recent meeting of the CTPB, a major management decision was made. Marsha Gray will be the sole general manager of that organization starting next month. She will no longer be working with Tim O’Connor and Associates. NCTA and CSF are still under contract with Tim O’Connor’s group. Only CTPB will be leaving. We want to thank Marsha for her total dedication to the Christ- mas Tree Industry. We know the extensive bounds of her many talents and her seeming- ly endless energy. We wish her the best as she pursues this new endeavor in her career to promote the real Christmas tree. As for NCTA and CSF, we will be managed by the most capable team of Tim and Ann O’Connor. Not having the obligation to pro- vide service to the CTPB, they feel confident that they can provide us with a professional, tailor made service, to provide our industry with the needed guidance into the next dec- ade. Paul Schroeder, NCTA President CTPB & NCTA Management Changes

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Farm Liability Sign Specifications

"The specifications for having the agritourism liability signs are below: Source: Code of Virginia Section § 3.2-6402 https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/titl e3.2/chapter64/section3.2-6402/ SIGNAGE SPECIFICATIONS Banner Size : 18” x 24” Material: 13 oz reinforced vinyl shiny outdoor banner material Print- ed (scratch proof ink) text on one side only; Back side: plain white vi- nyl spaced, in corners Text should be a minimum of 1" in height and printed in black - BANNER TEXT- HEADLINE (choose one): WARNING *or* ATTENTION (The following text must appear on your sign) Under Virginia law, there is no lia- bility for an injury to or death of a participant in an agritourism activity conducted at this agritourism loca- tion if such injury or death results from the inherent risks of the agritourism activity. Inherent risks of agritourism activities include, among others, risks of injury inherent to land, equipment and animals, as well as the potential for you to act in a negligent manner that may contribute to your injury or death. You are as- suming the risk of participating in this agritourism activity." Provided by Danny Neel, Sales and Market Development, Virginia Dept. of Agriculture & Consumer Services, 276- 228-5501 Of- fice, danny.neel@vdacs.virginia.gov 1 inch hem Reinforced grommets, evenly

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In addition to the family videos, Concept Farm will also be sharing some of the tremendous grow- er videos from last year on our social media plat- forms and industry

Of course, the public relations efforts will also include press releases to traditional and on-line media and will also include a repeat of last year’s successful satellite media tour. This opportunity allows us to sched- ule as many as 30 television inter- views across the country in one morning; using a paid spokesperson along with a Christmas tree grower. Finally, the campaign will also in- clude a cross promotion with the Christmas Spirit Foundation’s Trees for Troops program as it did in 2017. In all the work that is planned for the season, the key messages that real Christmas trees are better for making family memories and better for the environment will be incorpo- rated and reinforced. The goal is to expand the reach to consumers, particularly millennial parents, and share the rallying cry; It’s Christ- mas. Keep it Real! The Christmas Tree Promotion Board is happy to announce that in- dustry members can now purchase merchandise featuring the “It’s Christmas. Keep it Real” message and logos. CTPB has agreed to allow Screen Designs, Inc. to open an on-line mer- chandise store where growers can order t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps and more. Growers will order directly from a special site created by Screen Designs, Inc. In addition to wearable merchandise, growers can also order printed cam- paign banners in several designs. Check out the website and plan your order now! http://custom.screendesignsinc.com/its_ christmas_keep_it_real/shop/home Merchandise Shop Now Open!

• Millennial Families Target for CTPB Campaign With Christmas fast approaching, the Promotion Board has plans in place for the 2018 promotional season. The campaign will feature the experience of selecting the Christmas tree and the significance that this event holds for so many families. Once again, the CTPB is working with its two partners, Concept Farm and Fleishman Hillard, to develop a creative and engaging story that shares our messaging in a compelling way. Success is measured by the ability to reach the target market. Each of these partners has a role to play in insuring the success of the campaign and their work is guided by the CTPB internal team of Marsha Gray, Executive Director, Rex Kor- son, Promotion Committee Chair and Chris Maciborski, Promotion Com- mittee Vice-Chair. Concept Farm will be creating a se- ries of videos featuring real families; first sharing some of their holiday traditions, then allowing us to follow along as they select their Christmas tree. These families will be actual customers, pre-identified by industry retailers and growers. In addition to capturing the family tree selection experience, Concept Farm will be capturing interviews with growers, retail lot operators and other custom- ers along the way. All this footage can be turned into usable content. Like the grower videos, this series will be shared on our social media platforms and “boosted” to expand our reach.

members are encouraged to share the content on their social sites. Last year, hundreds of industry members engaged with the “It’s Christmas. Keep it Real” Facebook page and made a big impact in expanding our campaign reach. At the same time, those growers had access to profes- sional content for their own Face- book pages. Public relations partner, Fleishman Hillard, will be expanding the reach of the campaign by securing several opportunities including a satellite media tour, influencer partnerships and through a feature story on a pop- ular on-line entity with great Millen- nial reach. “Real People. Real Trees” will be the theme of a contest, en- couraging consumers to share their real Christmas tree photos on social media. The Promotion Board plans to part- ner with Red Tricycle, an on-line media outlet with a massive millen- nial reach, by sharing the experience of selecting the family Christmas tree and all the fun that goes with it. The Red Tricycle mission is “to help eve- ry parent feel like a rock star by in- spiring them to do fun things with their kids. We offer ideas that are aspirational and actionable that you can do at home, in your city or wher- ever your adventures take you.” Further spreading our message, we will work with influencers on social media; popular with young moms and dads. These influencers have great sway with their followers and both the influencers and Red Tricy- cle can announce our “Real People. Real Trees” contest.

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Handling the “Shortage” Story: Tools for the Industry As most growers will remember, last season the media aggressively cov- ered the story of the “shortage” of fresh cut Christmas trees. Despite efforts by CTPB, NCTA and other industry leaders, the story was ampli- fied around the US. And although some reporters did include some ac- curate information, the headlines with the word “shortage” were a se- rious problem for the industry. With the expectation that this story will be presented again in the media, the CTPB has worked with Fleish- man Hillard on a plan to preempt some of the incorrect reporting. Pro- fessionals at Fleishman Hillard have also developed a set of talking points and answers to common reporter questions that the entire industry can use. These tools are being shared with all state association executives for their use and distribution to their members, as well as with leaders of CTPB and NCTA. For More Information Contact: Sept. 14, 2018, Marsha Gray, Executive Director, 517-242-1630, mjgray1@charter.net

To Join: 1. Log into your Facebook profile. 2. Enter “Virginia Christmas Tree Growers” in the search box at the top left of the page. 3. Click the Groups tab to see a list of groups related to your search term. 4. As above, click on the name of the group to learn more, or click Join to become a member of the group. 5. You will have to wait for your membership request to be ap- proved. For additional info or help, contact Ryan Clouse rclouse@mafc.com Or Jeff Miller, secre- tary@VirginiaChristmasTrees.org 2018 VCTGA Officers & Directors Jeff Gregson, President Bees & Trees LLC Greg Lemmer , Past President Lemmer Inc John Carroll , Vice President

Exclusive New VCTGA Facebook Group for Members Only A new VCTGA membership benefit was introduced at our annual conference in Natural Bridge by Ryan Clouse – a VCTGA Facebook Group!

Claybrooke Farm LLC Directors - 2 Year Ryan Clouse Clouse Pine Hill Farm Laura Wolfe Every Soul Acres Dave Thomas Valley Star Farm Directors – 1 Year John Houston Sweet Providence Farm Robert O’Keeffe Rifton Farm & Nursery Tommy Naylor North Lake Christmas Tree & Nrsy Cheryll Green Hank’s Christmas Tree Farm

Have you ordered your VCTGA Tree Care/Price tags?

This is different from a regular Facebook page, in that what you post only goes to other VCTGA Group members. Ask a question, offer tips, new resources, post pho- tos, etc. Ryan is also setting up a resource clearinghouse page for Extension Publications, PowerPoint presenta- tions from VCTGA meetings, and other information that will help you be a more successful/profitable Christmas tree business.

See details on page 23

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REAL CHRISTMAS TREE SUPPLY

shopping early (starting the weekend after Thanksgiving) for the best se- lection.

If all members of the industry share the same messages with media re- garding tree supply, we will be able to ensure that media coverage only includes the facts and will limit any sensationalized stories regarding a tree shortage. What is the Downside of Perpetuating the Idea of a Tree Shortage in the Media? When consumers see media coverage about a shortage of real Christmas trees they will likely think one of two things that would be harmful to the industry as a whole: 1.) That they won’t be able to find a real Christmas tree due to shortage so won’t even try or 2.) That if there is a shortage prices will be so high that they won’t be able to afford a tree Either outcome among consumers would be unfavorable to the contin- ued health of the industry, even po- tentially driving consumers to pur- chase artificial trees instead of real trees. The Facts: There is a real Christmas tree for everyone who wants one in 2018. While the supply of real Christmas trees this year is a little tight, no one needs to worry about going way empty-handed. Concerns about the availability of trees last year were unwarranted and concerns this year are unnecessary. Although the idea of a “tree short- age” may have been a popular topic of conversation in recent years, the fact is that the industry did not run out of trees in 2016, did not run out of trees in 2017 and does ot expect to run out of trees in 2018. What Consumers Need to Know: If a consumer has a specific variety or size tree in mind, we encourage

What You Can Do: The best way to ensure a healthy supply of real Christmas trees is to support tree farmers every year. With an average growing time of seven years for a typical Christmas tree, farmers need to plan their crop years in advance. By purchasing a real Christmas tree each year, you will help drive demand that ensures there will be a healthy supply of real Christmas trees in the years to come. Plus, 100 percent of real Christmas trees sold in the U.S. are farmer planted and hand-harvested right here in North America. SAMPLE MEDIA QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Q: Is there a shortage of real Christmas trees this year ? A: While the supply of real Christ- mas trees this year is a little tight, no one needs to worry about going away empty-handed. Concerns about the availability of trees last year were unwarranted and concerns this year are unnecessary. We recommend shopping early (starting the weekend after Thanksgiving), especially if a consumer has a specific variety or size of tree in mind. Q: I heard there was a [hard freeze, drought, warm harvest season, etc.] that has impacted tree supply for 2018 – is this true? A: First of all, any adverse weather conditions this year would not have impact on this year’s harvestable trees. With that said, unrelated to a year’s weather conditions, it is true that there are variances in supply year-

WHAT WE SAY TO THE MEDIA, AS AN INDUSTRY, IS IMPORTANT

While we know that there are some in the industry who cannot fill all orders or that there may be some buyers continuing to look for trees, we also know that when it comes to consumers purchasing a tree in 2018 there will be a tree for every con- sumer who wants one. They may need to go to a different source than they had previously visited to pur- chase a tree, but they will be able to get a tree. Therefore, there is no tree shortage in 2018. What Do We Want the Media to Say? We want the media to help us en- courage and excite consumers about purchasing real Christmas trees! Sto- ries that perpetuate the idea of a tree shortage discourage consumers from wanting to buy a real Christmas tree. Generating media coverage that en- courages consumers to shop early (starting the weekend after Thanks- giving) will help ensure those who have a specific variety or size tree in mind will encounter the best selec- tion. Why is it Important for the Entire Industry to Speak in One Voice? When it comes to tree supply or questions regarding a shortage, hav- ing all members of the industry speaking in one voice is critical to achieving an outcome of media cov- erage that will be most beneficial to the industry.

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