The Christmas Tree Farmers Association of NY has announced that their 2017 Winter Convention will be held Jan. 26-28, at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Binghamton, NY. The program kicks off on Thursday evening at 6 p.m. with an informal Taste of Binghamton reception in the exhibit hall. More than 25 vendors are expected to be present. http://www.christmastreesny.org/Meetings.php
This year’s Convention theme is “Stronger Together” which was motivated by a desire to reach out to growers in the southern part of New York State, as well as in neighboring Pennsylvania. Several of the Convention’s presenters are well-known PA-based researchers and educators including Paul Shealer; and Sarah Pickel and Dr Ricky Bates from Penn State.
New for 2017: A day-long educational session on Sat. Jan. 28 is dedicated to meeting the needs of new and beginning growers. People thinking of getting into Christmas tree farming are also welcome to attend.
Both days, there will be several opportunities to receive NYS-DEC Pesticide Applicator Credits (pending DEC course approval) and a special session on the new worker protection standards. PA applicator credits will also be available (pending course approval).
The program will also include the annual wreath contest, awards presentation, drawings for prizes to benefit the CTFANY scholarship program, and a trade show with industry vendors. Download the complete schedule of events and a registration form from the CTFANY website: www.christmastreesny.org.
A block of rooms is being held at the DoubleTree through Dec. 24. To reserve, call 607-722-7575; and mention “Christmas Tree Farmers”.
