Christmas trees: Fake or real
As Christmas rolls around again, whether we are prepared for
it or not, we make the decision to have a fake or real tree adorning our living
rooms. There are a lot of proponents for having fake trees. One of the main
arguments is that it is not environmentally friendly to cut down trees every
year just for a month’s decoration then disposing of it. There are a couple of
rebuttals to those that are against having real trees enhancing their houses.
We will look at what a Christmas tree farm provides before the tree is cut and
how the tree can be used after the season.
The typical tree for the holidays takes eight to twelve
years to grow in order to reach an acceptable height for consumers. A study at
Appalachian State University suggests that Christmas tree farms in North
Carolina could potentially sequester 1.0 ton of C/acre per year. That helps us
all breathe a little easier especially here in Oregon where there is an abundance
of tree farms. Besides being good for the atmosphere they help the wildlife. A
growing trend in the farms is to have bird houses clustered in amongst the growth.
The evergreens provide a safe haven year around for them and as a food source
from insects on the trees. The Socially and Environmentally Responsible Farms
program certifies farms. They ensure the farm is taking steps to protect
wildlife and waterways and conserve soil and water resources. There are a
number of SERF-certified farms here in Oregon.
Okay so they are great for the environment but then we cut
them down and they don’t do any further good right? Not necessarily. That
depends on what we as consumers decide to do with the tree. In many communities
there are recycling centers that will collect the trees free of charge. Some
communities use trees to make sand and soil erosion barriers. Others use them
as sunken fish feeders. In Tualatin Valley there is a chapter of Trout
Unlimited that collects trees then places them at various locations to provide
predator protection and food sources for baby coho salmon.
Overall the choice is easy provided we are responsible with
the selection and disposal of a real tree. So go ahead and enjoy the natural
look and smell of a real tree just as when you were a kid.
Matthew Hamilton
Sources:
No comments:
Post a Comment