Innovating New Avenues for Serving the Industry

By Matt Edmundson, CCNP, CHREF Board President

Matt Edmundson

Although we are living in unprecedented times, the need for talented individuals and continued research in our industry remains certain.

The Colorado Horticulture Research and Education Foundation (CHREF) plays an integral role in encouraging and rewarding top-performing students at Colorado State University and Front Range Community College through scholarships, and contributes to needed research being conducted at CSU. Not only are contributions helping to secure the future leaders of the industry, but they are also responsible for the most up-to-date science and best practices for our industry.

Research at CSU is continuing as planned through the pandemic, with increased sanitation and social-distancing precautions.

The CHREF Board of Directors strives to use its endowment to make a difference in the industry and the future of horticulture businesses in Colorado, rather than just growing an account.

We urge you to invest in your future and the future of the Colorado horticulture industry.

jim and eric standing in field
Jim Klett and Eric Hammond collect data at multisite trials at Little Valley Nursery

On behalf of the CHREF Board, we thank you for your support and we look forward to continuing to work for our industry.

The Board is exploring how it can continue to serve the industry through other avenues that fall within its mission. Bringing the CCNP (Colorado Certified Nursery Professional) certification and training seminars online is one opportunity that has presented itself during the virus. This would create a more accessible certification option for members in the future, regardless of the virus. The Board will be working with the Certification Committee to bring a digital option to fruition. 

The Board is interested in hearing from you. What kind of research would you like to see from CSU in the future? What research would benefit your business? Please reach out with any recommendations or comments to info@coloradonga.org. If you are considering donating or want to pass a donation request to others, you can download, share and print this letter.

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