The Coalition of Environmentally-Conscious Growers (currently, representing 25% of Oregon Christmas trees) will identify their certified trees with hang tags using stringent environmental criteria. An independent auditor has evaluated these growers for certification.
The Coalition of Environmentally-Conscious Growers’ focus is on consumer education and grower certification that identifies responsible, earth-friendly growers. The goals of the Coalition are to create amiable, value-plus relationships with consumers, as well as to revitalize the live Christmas tree market.

Real Christmas trees are grown on farms like any other crop. For every tree removed from the soil, at least one is planted in its place. Pesticides are sprayed only where needed. Christmas tree farms serve as a natural buffer zone to prevent erosion and contamination to and from adjoining streams and waterways and play a vital role in protecting surrounding eco-systems. The trees complete nature’s own natural recycling program after Christmas by being turned into mulch.

So, the myth that Christmas trees deforest America is just that, a myth.

Imported “fake” trees’ carbon footprint takes 20 years to equal that of a real Christmas tree. Additionally, many of the “fake” trees contain lead and they are flammable.
The Coalition of Environmentally-Conscious Growers, is a not-for profit organization serving to educate the public on the importance of live trees and to promote environmentally sound growing practices. These growers recognize and are dedicated to the best sustainable growing practices.

December 18, 2010
Real VS Fake the recycling question which is better? In these eco-conscious times, many people want to shrink their environmental footprint while still enjoying the trappings of the holiday season. A survey cites that the average Fake tree is only used for about 6 to 10 years.
Read the full article on The NY Times Green Blog

Dec 24, 2010
Good Morning America looks deeper at the differences between Real Christmas Trees and their fake counterpart. The report cites that, the average fake tree would need to be used for 20 years to equal the carbon footprint of a real Christmas tree. The report also include an archived version of the story aired.
Read the full article and see the video on ABCNews.go.com

November 10, 2010
The National Wildlife Foundation has written a comprehensive look at environmental issues surrounding farming practices and land use. Learn more about some of the major environmental issues on agricultural lands today, and how USDA Farm Bill Conservation Programs are helping to address those problems
Read the full article on nwf.org

December 18, 2009
Thinking Green is not limited to just your Christmas tree during the holiday season. This article from NorthJersey.com offers 10 tips for thinking / acting green over the holiday season, most of which are not limited to just the holidays. The Coalition is dedicated to promoting a greener tomorrow and we invite you to make use of these tips on a daily basis.
Read the full article on NorthJersy.com

Dec. 26, 2009
Moneycrashers provides an in depth look at the factual pros and cons of real vs fake Christmas Trees, including fire safety. There are many misconceptions about real Christmas trees vs. their artificial counterpart. Real life pros and cons about real vs fake. By far the price is the most obvious difference between the two, but the same can be said about roses on Valentine’s Day. What might surprise you is that a FAKE tree is actually MORE FLAMMABLE then a Real Christmas Tree, that can be fireproofed, should you be concerned.
Read the full story on MoneyCrashers.com

Nov 30, 2009
More than 30 million real Christmas trees are sold in the U.S. each year. This holiday season, don’t toss yours in the dumpster. Instead, consider organizing a recycling program in your community, even if one was not in place last year. Where there is a will there is a way.
Read the full article on Houselogic.com

Nov 1, 2009
The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, created a wonderful resource for anyone that would like to know more about the key aspects of Farm Stewardship and how to better manage environmental issues. The points addressed can be set in place on just about any size farming operation, form your back yard, to the back 40. Read the full article on omafra.gov.on.ca

June 24, 2009
The Agriculture Department will have the lead role in overseeing agriculture offsets under the House climate bill, a major victory for farm groups that pushed lawmakers to take the lead away from U.S. EPA and a defeat for environmental groups that fear the agriculture agency may be too lax in oversight.
Read the full article on nytimes.com

Now that Christmas is only a few days away, you’d normally be up to your ears in wrapping paper and ribbon. This year, instead of creating all that waste this year…take a look at these great sites that have some alternative ideas for making those presents beautiful and Eco-friendly.

National Geographic Green Guide

Focus Organic Ultimate Green Christmas

Celebrate Green

The Daily Green

December 18, 2008
President-elect Barack Obama’s selection of Tom Vilsack, a former governor of a heartland state and a strong supporter of alternative energy sources, as agriculture secretary drew praise Wednesday from both environmentalists and farmers - groups that don’t often see eye to eye.
Read the full story on SFGATE.com