Preserve Grayson Inc. was founded to preserve the water, air, native habitat, health, and traditional peaceful way of life of residents in and surrounding Grayson County, Virginia.
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We are a grassroots organization, formed to respond to the massive and rapid expansion of industrial scale agriculture, particularly of large corporate Christmas tree plantations. We seek to elevate the voices of those affected by this industry, and other forms of industrial agriculture, including the native flora and fauna that has thrived here for generations. In addition, we hope to educate the public about the impacts of industrial scale agriculture on rural communities in Grayson County, Virginia and beyond.
Click here for "before and afters!"
Beginnings
For many years, farmers have planted Christmas trees as a cash crop. However, the commercial production of thousands of acres of trees, sprayed with chemicals from helicopters in gusty winds is a different matter entirely. The rapid, massive expansion of industrial scale agriculture is destroying the livelihoods of small farmers.
Dramatic Changes
Thousands of acres of mountain hillsides have been clearcut for the production of Christmas tree plantations. Sedimentation in streams is a growing problem. Rural residents get their drinking water from wells and recent testing has shown an increase in nitrates close to tree plantations.
The Birds and the Bees
Our pollinators are in trouble! Consider the loss of thousands of acres of habitat for pollinators, native plants and wildlife. The USDA classifies bees as livestock, yet bees get their food from foraging. The number of apiarists in Grayson County has dramatically decreased secondary to these changes.
Listen to one resident's story about the impact of industrial scale Christmas tree production on her home and her community.