Welcome to the Michigan State University Christmas tree Area of Expertise Team Website. This site is developed and supported by MSU faculty and agents dedicated to support the Christmas tree industry in Michigan.
Vision Statement
We envision a profitable Christmas tree industry in Michigan that is environmentally responsible and competitive on a regional and national scale.
Mission Statement
Michigan State University's Christmas Tree AoE is dedicated to maintaining Michigan as a major Christmas tree producing state with national visibility and stature, by conducting educational, demonstration and research programs designed to maintain and enhance the contributions of the Christmas tree industry to Michigan's economy.
Goals and Objectives
Goal #1: Assist Christmas tree growers in the production of high quality trees, more efficiently and in an environmentally sound manner.
Objectives:
1) Assist Christmas tree growers in development and adoption of more intensive management practices to shorten the production period and increase revenue;
2) Provide Christmas tree growers with information on insect, pathogen and weed pests and pest management options;
3) Identify conifer varieties adapted to specific sites, growing conditions and marketing opportunities; provide information to growers to assist them in selecting appropriate species and varieties.
4) Develop guidelines for efficient management of water resources and inform Christmas tree growers about methods for effective water management that meets State and Federal regulations.
5) Develop environmentally sound recommendations for soil nutrient management that meets Christmas tree production goals while protects soil fertility and water
6) Continue to provide Christmas tree growers with timely information and research results to enhance Christmas tree production in Michigan.
Goal #2: Support Christmas tree growers by helping them to manage their businesses in a more profitable manner and develop new market opportunities.
Objectives:
1) Assist Christmas tree growers in management, recruitment and training of employees and in achieving compliance with all State and Federal Laws relating to labor.
2) Assist Christmas tree growers in complying with all federal, state and local environmental or land use regulations.
3) Assist Christmas tree growers and retailers in short and long-term economic planning.
4) Assist Christmas tree growers and retailers in developing new products and marketing opportunities.
Goal #3: Build leadership in the Christmas tree industry that will allow that industry to expand and to compete on a regional and national basis.
Objectives:
1) Identify, encourage and assist industry leaders in continuing to develop and enhance skills necessary for the role of industry leader
2) Provide opportunities for Michigan producers to interact with industry leaders and researchers from other production areas
3) Ensure that the Michigan industry remains on the cutting-edge of knowledge and technology related to the Christmas tree industry.
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