Growers protect environment
www.yahoo.com 2007-11-29
Couple's holiday tree farm recognized for using organic gardening methods to curb groundwater pollution.
For the last 29 years, Cathy and Frank Genovese have been on a mission: to protect the environment and keep chemicals from leaching into the groundwater at their Candy Cane Christmas Tree Farm
The couple's 18-acre property is managed in several eco-friendly ways, including a drip irrigation system, which uses less water than sprinklers and allows water to go directly to the roots of trees. All herbicides are applied without the use of tractors and gasoline.
"We have always done our best to try to do things the right way so our neighbors nearby can feel comfortable drinking the groundwater," Cathy Genovese said. "We wouldn't want to do anything that would negatively impact ourselves or the community."
As a result, the Candy Cane Christmas Tree Farm is being heralded above the rest for its environmental stewardship.
The business is the first in Oakland County to be certified by the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program for voluntary compliance with pollution-free farming practices. The owners have been applying similar organic gardening techniques to their Christmas trees to help protect the environment and neighbors since opening the business.
They have been awarded the 2007 Michigan Farm Bureau Award for Proactive Leadership in Ecology management.
"This validates our hard work, and it's humbling to be chosen. Our methods aren't suitable for everyone, but we take pride in what we do," Cathy Genovese said. "Our goal is to help preserve the Earth and leave a good environment for our children. And in our own little ways, if each one of us did something to make the Earth a better place, I think we'd succeed."
The staff walks the farm with battery operated machines when applying herbicides, ensuring the product is only directed at weeds. To help cut down on chemicals, the farm has different species of trees planted close to each other, which helps control bugs and disease.
Longtime customer Jennifer Grigsby of Waterford Township appreciates the efforts.
"You feel good about buying products from there," Grigsby said. "Not only are their services wonderful, but they really pay attention to the ground, the air and to the trees which provide renewable resources. It's great for the planet, and they deserve the recognition."
(editor : jane)
