Nov. 22, 2010

Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) Director Greg Ibach would like to encourage Nebraskans to think locally this holiday season.

“As we prepare to decorate our homes and give friends and loved ones holiday gifts, I’d like to remind Nebraskan’s to think locally first,” said Ibach. “Our Christmas tree growers offer a wide variety of beautiful locally grown trees.”

Nebraska Christmas tree operations offer numerous varieties of Pine, Spruce, and Fir trees. Many of the farms also offer wreaths, swags, and garlands. Family opportunities abound with snacks, wagon rides, children’s activities, pony rides, and campfires. Many farms are pet friendly and offer gift and craft shops as well. Other services offered by some of the farms include tree cutting, cleaning, netting, and loading assistance.

To assist with locating Christmas tree farms, NDA has updated the Nebraska Christmas Tree Growers Directory. It features nearly 30 tree farms throughout Nebraska.

“Locating the perfect holiday gift can be a difficult task,” said Ibach. “I encourage Nebraskan’s to utilize the Nebraska Holiday Brochure as a good reference for Nebraska companies that can make your holiday gift giving easier.”

Among the pages of the brochure, consumers will find Nebraska food and meat companies that package food products year-round in a variety of different ways. Meat products range from the traditional Nebraska beef and pork, to bison and ostrich meats. Food products include candies, desserts, jellies, baking mixes, pastas, wines, and seasonings.

Both brochures are available online at www.agr.ne.gov. Copies may also be obtained by calling (800) 422-6692. To listen to the NDA information on these brochures, visit: http://www.agr.ne.gov/radio/nda_update.htm.

News Release
Nebraska Department of Agriculture