Pea Ridge was excited to host the summer 2024 meeting of the Missouri Christmas Tree Association. The event's theme, "Back to Basics," sought to explore the fundamental principles of growing and producing quality trees. This theme highlighted the unique dichotomy within the organization, bridging the expertise of seasoned veterans with the fresh perspectives of a new wave of young and emerging growers. The discussion began with topics such as sourcing quality seedlings, mowing, spraying, shearing, colorant, and everything in between.

Seasoned veterans shared their experiences and challenges, while the younger growers provided a fresh perspective and new insights. The event featured field demonstrations on shearing, planting, and spraying, as well as more in-depth classes on chemical applications and the use of gift shop and tree by-products.

The weather was favorable during the tours, with good conditions and late afternoon showers. It was a great day with a strong turnout. Susan Ehlenbeck began the afternoon session with a comprehensive overview of bugs and diseases faced by the industry. This seamlessly led into Helena's presentation on all aspects of chemical use, covering handling, calibrating, and applying chemicals, as well as emphasizing their role as one tool in the arsenal for producing healthy and quality trees.

The membership meeting was held at the end of the presentations.