The Christmas Tree Industry in Dutchess County is a strong and growing industry. Total value of the industry in Dutchess County is estimated to be in excess of $5,000,000. There are approximately 30 Christmas Tree growers in Dutchess County with a total of about 500 acres. Farms vary in size from five acres to 40 acres per farm. About 25% are full time growers, and 75% are part-time growers. Approximately 50% of the growers also grow other crops (i.e. roadside vegetables, greenhouse bedding plants, nursery stock, etc.). Christmas tree growers who incorporate IPM into their everyday growing regime not only promote environmental stewardship, they also increase profitability by reducing the amount of money spent on pesticides.