A Planning Study to Promote the Production and - Warren Wilson ...

Final Report
A Planning Study to Promote the Production
and Purchase of Native Plants in Western NC
Prepared for
The Conservation Fund’s
Resourceful Communities Program
by
Phillip R. Gibson
Director of Research and Community Outreach
Environmental Leadership Center
Warren Wilson College
Research Support provided by
Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project
and the
Richard L. Hoffman Center for Assessment and Research Alliances at
Mars Hill College
September 2006

Executive Summary
The number of small family farms in western North Carolina continues to decline.
The impact of this decline on the local communities includes economic stability,
changes in infrastructure, loss of cultural heritage, loss of jobs, and changes in
the environment.
Many efforts are underway to address this decline. Most notably are the efforts
to find alternative crops that improve the competitiveness and stability of the
farms in western North Carolina.
Exotic invasive species, introduced through the nursery trade, in concert with the
destruction of local habitats continue to be detrimental to the biological diversity
of the western North Carolina region. Natural areas such as parks, conservation
areas, and other land holdings work with great expense at minimizing and
eliminating exotic invasive plants from their managed area.
The research discussed within this report is focused on building upon those
efforts with a focus on promoting native ornamentals of western North Carolina
as an alternative crop for the small local farmer of western North Carolina. This
research also looks to match the needs and purchase of plants by the NC
Department of Transportation with local producers of native plants of western
North Carolina.
Methods
Person to person interviews were conducted with staff of the NC Department of
Transportation and NC Department of Agriculture, the executive director and
members of the NC Nurseryman’s Association, and the NC Secretary of
Administration. A survey was also conducted the members of the Appalachian
Sustainable Agriculture Project.
Findings
The questions for this research were could the use of native plants by NC DOT
be expanded and what is needed to expand the use of native plants in roadway
landscaping The North Carolina Department of Transportation utilizes native
plants for both roadside beautification and post construction. Thus a demand
currently exists for native ornamentals.
The NC DOT has stated an interest in purchasing more locally grown native
plants. The barriers to this process are:
• Few contractors have registered themselves with DOT to receive
“requests for bids”
• Plant availability is minimal or non-existent
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 2

Introduction
Comparing the 1949 Census data to each year following, the decline of the small
family farm of western North Carolina appears to have started in the early 1950s.
Of the farms that existed in the 23 mountain counties in 1949, 72 percent of them
have been converted, since then, to other uses such as residential and
commercial development. Development is not the primary driver for land
conversion but a symptom of a number of economic, environmental and cultural
pressures. It is these three areas (economic, environmental and cultural) that
are the focus of this research report and are the elements of the Conservation
Fund’s Resourceful Communities “triple bottom line”.
The decline of small farms continues. In June 2006 the Asheville Citizen Times
reported “approximately half of the mountains’ 4,000 [tobacco] growers have
quit”. In July 2006, the Citizen Times reported a growing number of farmers who
are aging out and the lack of young farmers. The declining prospect of profit
from farming influences this decision. Profit is influenced by a number of
variables. However, competition and demand for the product are two of the most
significant.
The Environmental Leadership Center of Warren Wilson College received a
$9,000 grant from The Conservation Fund’s Resourceful Communities program
in order to conduct a feasibility and planning study as it relates to promoting the
production and purchase of native plants from small farmers of western North
Carolina for roadside beautification by NC Department of Transportation.
This research affirms that native plants offer an economic opportunity for western
North Carolina farmers as it is a market with few competitors. The opportunity
also exists to influence the demand for native plants by demonstrating their
ornamental uses to the general public. Roadside applications are viewed as one
possible vehicle for marketing native ornamentals. And while this grant focused
on this avenue, every public venue provides a similar opportunity.
Native plants as well as small family farms are elements of the cultural and social
heritage of western North Carolina. The conservation and establishment of
native plant communities influence the preservation of ecological diversity.
Promoting regional use of native plant species that are propagated by local small
farms can enrich the biological diversity of our region, preserve the ecological
heritage, and assist in minimizing the use of exotic species that tend to dominate
the landscape.
The findings of this research indicate that these opportunities are feasible and
are agreeable to NC Department of Transportation, western North Carolina
farmers, and the supporting organizations such as Appalachian Sustainable
Agriculture Project.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 3

The NC DOT has a history of utilizing native plants for roadside beautification
and post construction. The types of species available as well as the cost and
access of those species guide this activity.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 4

• ASAP staff consulted with a number of nursery plant growers and professionals
working with farmers in the region to develop an acceptable definition of
Appalachian Grown nursery plants (see below). This language is currently
included in all producer agreements with farmers for Appalachian Grown
Certification.
APPALACHIAN GROWN PRODUCER CERTIFICATION
The Appalachian Grown logo certifies farms that grow or raise food and
agricultural products in an Appalachian county. To become Appalachian
Grown certified and market products with the Appalachian Grown logo, the
farm operator must confirm the following standards.
1. The farm is located in an Appalachian county.
2. The individual certifying the farm is the farm operator.
3. Products marketed as Appalachian Grown will be grown or raised
on the certified farm or on another certified Appalachian Grown
farm.
4. Nursery plants and trees marketed as Appalachian Grown have
spent at least 75% of life beyond propagation or at least 1 year on
the farm.
5. For meat marketed as Appalachian Grown, the animal spent 75% of
its life after weaning on the certified farm or on another certified
Appalachian Grown farm.
• Using directories from various trade organizations and the NC Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services database, ASAP developed a list of 469 nursery
growers. Nursery growers are defined here as any farm growing non-food crops
included in one of four categories of plants included in the USDA Agricultural
Census (Nursery stock crops; Nursery, floriculture, greenhouse and sod; Cut
Christmas trees; and Short-rotation woody crops)
• A written survey was mailed to all 469 nursery growers on the list. Where email
addresses were available, a follow-up reminder was sent to nursery growers
encouraging them to participate in the survey. A total of 109 surveys were returned,
for a response rate of 23%. Nine of those were eliminated from analysis because they
do not currently and do not plan to sell nursery products.
• A list of 99 farms that indicated they do grow nursery products meeting the
definition of Appalachian Grown are included in an electronic file named “Contact
List for Nurseries with Appalachian Grown Plants.” For each nursery listed in the
file, details about which plants they sell and which of their plants they regard as
native is included.
• Basic analysis of data from the questionnaires is included as a separate file called
“Appalachian Grown Survey Results.” The file includes frequencies and percentages
from all questions on the survey, including the question of how respondents define a
native plant.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 5

• In exploring the definition of native plants used by nursery growers, respondents
were asked how they would define the term. 82 responses to this question were
received, which can be grouped into 7 categories as detailed below. Individual
responses can be viewed on the survey results spreadsheet.
How would you define a native plant
Category Number %
Plants that grow well/thrive in WNC 7 8.5%
Plants that grow wild/naturally in WNC 25 30.5%
Plants that originated in WNC 28 34.1%
Plants that originated in NC 3 4.5%
Plants that originated in Eastern US 2 3.7%
Plants that originated in Continental US 5 6.1%
Don’t know 1 6.1%
Other 6 7.3%
Total 82 100%
• The Local Food Guide planning team at ASAP is in the process of determining how
to include nursery growers in future print editions. At least 100,000 Local Food
Guides will be printed in 2007. Other possibilities being considered for promoting
locally grown nursery products include developing separate or seasonal guides or
partnering with other organizations that produce guides to some categories of nursery
products, such as the NC Christmas Tree Growers Association. The online Local
Food Guide (which receives an average of 100,000 visits per year) is being adapted to
include a listing for Appalachian Grown certified nursery products.
• A written report summarizing key findings from the survey as they relate to ASAP’s
efforts to strengthen the regional food and farm economy in western North Carolina is
being prepared. A draft of that report is included as a separate file called “The Value
of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers in WNC.” That report is
owned by ASAP but is included here for the ELC to review.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 6

Increasing local consumption of locally grown food and farm products has been a
primary goal of the local food and farm campaign operated by the Appalachian
Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) since 2000. ASAP has used multiple strategies
to achieve that goal, including public education and promotional work, farmer training
and support, focused farm-to-school programming, and publishing and distributing the
Local Food Guide, a comprehensive guide to food and farms in western North Carolina.
In 2006 ASAP introduced the Appalachian Grown logo for certifying farms and farm
products grown or raised in Appalachian counties.
In the 23-county region where ASAP operates, nearly 20% of harvested cropland was
used to grow Christmas trees and all categories of nursery crops in 2002, the most recent
USDA Agricultural Census year. Approximately 20% of western North Carolina’s
12,212 farms produced these types of non-food crops that year, accounting for close to
32% of the $543 million cash receipts from farming in the region. Together, nursery
crops and cut Christmas trees generated $166.5 million in cash receipts to the region’s
farmers in 2002.
To explore the question of whether non-food crops could benefit from a local campaign
similar to the one used for promoting locally grown food, ASAP commissioned a survey
of all farms producing nursery crops in the region during the summer of 2006. The goals
of the survey were to explore the applicability of the Appalachian Grown designation
for trees, shrubs and plants grown in the region, and to explore interest among producers
of these crops in using such a label.
For the survey, a list of farmers growing Christmas trees and all categories of plants was
compiled using directories from various trade organizations and from the North Carolina
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services database. A total of 469 growers
were identified and mailed a written survey asking about the products they grow and
issues related to using the Appalachian Grown label. 109 surveys were returned for a
response rate of 23%. Results from 100 usable surveys are presented below.
Descriptive information
The term nursery growers is used in this survey to mean any farm growing non-food
crops included in any of four categories of plants in the USDA Agricultural Census
(Nursery stock crops; Nursery, greenhouse, floriculture and sod; Cut Christmas trees; and
Short-rotation woody crops). Specific items grown by the farms surveyed here are listed
in Figure 1, as are summary statistics regarding acreage used for growing nursery crops.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 7

Figure 1: Nursery Crops Grown by Survey Respondents
(n=100)
Foliage plants
Other
Short-rotation
woody crops
Nursery stock
Cut Xmas trees
Herbaceous
perennials
Total Acres: 5427 Average Acreage: 54.3
Median Acreage: 5 Range: .10 to 1170 acres
More than half of all farms surveyed raise plants on fewer than 5 acres, which is not
surprising given the small size of WNC farms in general. Only three farms responding to
the survey were large, each of those operating on 1000 or more acres.
Nearly a third of the nursery growers reported that they also grow other types of farm
products (see Figure 2). Non-nursery crops grown by these farms included timber and
pulpwood as well as small quantities of food crops. Food production mainly included
fruits and vegetables grown for home consumption or for direct sale to consumers.
Figure 2: Non-Nursery Products Reported by Survey
Respondents (n=34)
Animals
(Cattle/goats)
Other
Vegetables
Herbs
Other Greenery
Hay
Fruit
Timber/Pulpwood
Total Acres for non-nursery crops: 2690 Average acreage: 79
Median Acreage: 15 Range: 1 to 1000
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 8

Determining the Value of a Local Label for Nursery Products
In order for Appalachian Grown or another similar label to be useful for nursery
products grown in the region, several conditions must be met. First, there must be a
sufficient quantity of products that meet an accepted definition of locally grown. There
must also be interest among growers in using the label. And there must be markets where
the label adds value to the products being sold. Survey results related to each of those
areas will be discussed below.
Definition of Appalachian Grown
In consultation with farmers and professionals working with farmers throughout western
North Carolina, ASAP developed a set of criteria for Appalachian Grown certification
which includes a definition of nursery plants and trees (see Figure 3).
Figure 3. Producer Certification for Appalachian Grown Farms and Farm Products
To become Appalachian Grown certified and market products with the Appalachian
Grown logo, the farm operator must confirm the following standards.
1. The farm is located in an Appalachian county.
2. The individual certifying the farm is the farm operator.
3. Products marketed as Appalachian Grown will be grown or raised on the certified
farm or on another certified Appalachian Grown farm.
4. Nursery plants and trees marketed as Appalachian Grown have spent at least
75% of life beyond propagation or at least 1 year on the farm.
5. For meat marketed as Appalachian Grown, the animal spent 75% of its life after
weaning on the certified farm or on another certified Appalachian Grown farm.
Of 100 survey respondents, more than two thirds indicated that at least 90% of their
products would meet the proposed definition of Appalachian Grown nursery products.
Only one indicated that none of its products would meet the definition.
Interest among growers
Interest is high among this group of growers in pursuing Appalachian Grown labeling
and advertising. More than 60% of respondents indicated that they would like to be
contacted about Appalachian Grown labeling and/or being listed in ASAP’s Local
Food Guide. And nearly 70% said they thought sales of nursery products would benefit
from Appalachian Grown labeling and advertising. Of 34 responses to a question
asking for comments about the label, close to one quarter were positive and either
directly or indirectly signaled support for the new logo.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 9

Markets and Value of the Label
At a minimum, a local label is valuable if it results in increased product sales. While a
significant number of nursery growers expressed doubts about the ability of the
Appalachian Grown label to materially benefit their businesses, most still indicated
that nursery product sales could benefit from this type of advertising. From a
sustainability perspective, however, the highest value for a local label is when use of the
label results in increased sales in the region where the products were grown.
A sustainable farming system is one that provides incentives for farmers to stay in
farming and maximizes returns from farming – to individual farmers as well as to the
region where they farm – while minimizing social, environmental and financial costs of
farming. For example, local markets can allow farmers to earn greater returns by
minimizing product transport costs and payments to intermediaries. They also provide
additional economic impact to the region by keeping dollars spent on farm products
circulating within the local area.
Currently, 57% of nursery growers completing a survey sell to retailers or wholesalers
within the region and 61% sell to retailers and wholesalers in other regions. When asked
about their interest in expanding sales to local markets, more than 70% of respondents
scored their interest as 8 or higher on a scale from 1 to 10. However, three areas of
concern were identified as barriers to achieving a higher volume of local sales.
The first two concerns focused on consumer awareness and avenues for selling nursery
products locally. ASAP is well-positioned to address these concerns by incorporating
nursery growers and nursery products into its existing local food campaign. That
campaign is at least partly responsible for high demand for local food in the region.
ASAP has distributed more than 250,000 Local Food Guides over the last six years and
implemented many other awareness-raising initiatives. ASAP has also worked with local
farmers to increase the number of farmers’ markets in the region.
The third area of concern described by nursery growers is more problematic. Of 77
responses to a question about barriers to increasing local sales of nursery products, more
than 45% named issues related to the mismatch between supply and demand for nursery
products in western North Carolina. References to competition from so-called “big box
retailers” fit within this category, as did numerous references to price and competition
from other local growers and comments like “oversupply” and “low demand.” The
growers described a situation where local demand or consumption of nursery products
lags far behind the level of supply. Interestingly, this is in direct contrast to the situation
with food crops, where the market for locally grown fruits and vegetables far exceeds the
supply of locally grown fruits and vegetables. 1
1 See The Western North Carolina Food and Farm Economy at www.asapconnections.org under the
heading Food Systems Research.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 10

Conclusions and Implications
The data suggest a need to differentiate locally grown nursery products in an effort to
increase local demand for the products. Nursery growers enrolling in the Appalachian
Grown logo program may be one way to accomplish this. Use of the logo as one
component of a comprehensive local food campaign has been effective in increasing local
demand for locally grown fruits and vegetables.
In the short term, it will require minimal investment of time and resources for ASAP to
expand its local food campaign to include nursery products. Opportunities range from
adding a category for nursery products to the online version of the Local Food Guide to
adding a section for nursery products in the print version of the guide to developing an all
new guide for nursery products to be sent out through existing distribution channels. As
for markets, there exist opportunities to include nursery products in any of the nearly
three dozen markets currently affiliated with ASAP’s campaign.
Longer term, it may also be reasonable for nursery growers who are interested in
expanding sales to local markets to consider shifting to production of fruits and
vegetables. The high level of demand for those products, which is likely to continue
growing as ASAP strengthens and expands its campaign more fully into the 23-county
region of western North Carolina, can protect against situations where prices are driven
down below the level of profitability. These types of shifts will of course depend on
grower interest; on climate, soil and weather conditions dictating what crops can
realistically be grown in the region; and on investments of time and training required to
make them.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 11

The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 12

Introduction
The Environmental Leadership Center of Warren-Wilson College received a
$9,000 grant from the Conservation Fund of North Carolina in order to investigate
how enhance
contracted with the Richard L. Hoffman Center for Assessment and Research
Alliances (CARA) at Mars Hill College to conduct an analysis of purchase and
use of native plants by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT).
Specifically, CARA agreed to: 1) Research current DOT policies and practices
regarding procurement of plant species; 2) review local and regional plant
species available for commercial landscape application; 3) review existing
commercial infrastructure that can supply native plants to DOT, and; 4) make
recommendations for specific short-term and long-term strategies to develop
commercial production and distribution infrastructure for using native plants in
DOT roadside beautification or construction remediation projects.
In the course of this work researchers interviewed
• DOT landscape engineers
• The Roadside Environmental Unit at DOT headquarters in Raleigh
• The North Carolina Secretary of Administration who oversees the state Purchase
and Contracts Office
• Western North Carolina landscape companies
• Western North Carolina farmers
• The Executive Director of the North Carolina Nurserymen’s Association, and
• Region 14 DOT
Some of our findings from information gathered are as follows:
1) DOT officials are generally supportive of increased use of native plant species in
roadside beautification and construction remediation efforts. They welcome
collaboration on pilot projects and educational efforts to increase participation by
native plant growers in the purchasing and contract bidding process. A
substantial amount of decision-making authority is delegated to regional division
officials and DOT Board Members who take interest in particular projects.
2) The DOT Purchase and Contract bidding process is cumbersome, multi-layered,
and difficult to understand. Bids probably cannot specify that a given desired
plant species must be supplied from with-in the state of North Carolina, due to
Federal inter-state commerce laws. Though cost considerations are paramount in
most bids, specifications on plant types and their qualities can be decisive.
3) Very few western North Carolina plant companies are registered to do business
with the state. Of 170 companies that are registered with state government to sell
nursery stock, equipment, and supplies, 15 are located in western North
Carolina. Among those 15, approximately 5 sell plants.
Based on the above key findings, recommendations for further action include:
1) Develop a viable pilot project to introduce and publicly
highlight the use of western North Carolina native plants by the
state. Such a project will require collaboration among state
officials, local nurseries, local municipalities, nonprofits, and
the WWC Center for Environmental Leadership.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 13

2) Develop an educational and outreach program to western
North Carolina nurseries and native landscaping companies
on how to participate in bids for DOT projects.
3) Work with organizations such as the Appalachian Sustainable
Agriculture Project (ASAP), and the North Carolina
Cooperative Extension Service, to develop a certification
process for defining specific plants as “native.”
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 14

DOT Procurement of Plant Materials
North Carolina’s state government has a well-established system of purchasing from
outside vendors. Its primary responsibility appears to be good stewardship of the state’s
resources, and as such, price of materials or services is the overriding consideration in
the vast amount of purchases.
Courts have ruled that federal law, particularly the Interstate Commerce Clause of the
US Constitution, prohibits restricting purchases to vendors located in a particular state or
states. Therefore, various state policies on purchasing material or services from North
Carolina-based suppliers are essentially unenforceable. As a result, a significant portion
of plants materials purchased by DOT are from suppliers located in the Midwest.
In North Carolina, DOT operates under the guidelines of both the Department's
Purchasing Section (http://www.ncdot.org/business/) and the guidelines of The State
Department of Purchase and Contracts (P&C) (http://www.doa.state.nc.us/PandC/).
Please see their web pages regarding specific details.
Purchasing Overview
All North Carolina Government purchasing programs use competitive bidding. The
Purchasing Unit of DOT reports to the Department’s Chief Financial Officer. The
Purchasing Unit has the authority and responsibility of obtaining all commodities
necessary for the operation and maintenance of the department of transportation. By
having a purchasing section, the department can obtain more favorable pricing on all
commodities meeting the department’s specifications and thus use available funding
more efficiently. This section has to be especially careful to obtain public pricing without
favoritism.
For purchases in excess of $25,000, bids must be submitted through the North Carolina
Department of Administration Purchase and Contracts Division (P&C). The state
purchasing officer has authorized a dollar limit of $25,000 to the DOT for purchasing of
commodities, printing, and services without using the competitive bidding process. All
commodities and contractual services covered by term contracts must be purchased in
accordance with the instructions of those contracts. The purchasing officer of the DOT
sets forth written purchasing procedures for making small purchases. It is not
permissible to divide purchases to avoid the normal bid process. Awarding of contracts
which are under $25,000 is the responsibility of DOT and does not come under P&C.
The purchasing policies for different dollar amounts are as follows:
Table 1: Purchasing Requirements by Dollar Amount
PURCHASES MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
0 to $2,500.00 COMPETITION NOT REQUIRED
$2,500.00 to
$5,000.00
$5,000.00 to
$25,000.00
THREE TELEPHONE OR WRITTEN QUOTE
OR DOCUMENT REASON(S) FOR NOT
RECEIVED 3 QUOTES.
PREPARE RFQ DOCUMENTS AND
ADVERTISE THROUGH IPS, (INTERACTIVE
PURCHASING SYSTEM).
$25,000.00 AND PREPARE BID PACKAGE AND FORWARD
WRITTEN QUOTE
REQUIRED FROM
WINNER
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 15

UP
TO PURCHASE AND CONTRACT.
Informal Bid Process
Normally, there are two types of informal bids, telephones solicitations and written
solicitations. Division engineers, branch managers, section heads, unit heads, or their
design agents may secure informal quotations from suppliers. The quotation form found
in the purchasing web site must be used due to terms and conditions which are required.
This form can be downloaded and modified to include description of all requirements and
the specifications.
Standard DOT Purchasing Practices
NCDOT is divided into 14 local division offices under the Division of Highways located
geographically throughout the state. These 14 local division offices are responsible for
construction, maintenance, roadside environmental programs, traffic services and the
fiscal and facility operations involved in administering these functions. These Divisions
enjoy a relatively high degree of autonomy in administering and executing specific
projects within their allocated budgets.
Once a Division determines that they have a need for an enhancement planting project
and monies are ear-marked for the project, the Division will contact the Design and
Development Section in the Central Unit in Raleigh. This Section then works with the
Division to design an appropriate plan for the site. Once the plan is finalized, the
Division 'lets' the project for bid through either DOT Purchasing or P&C. Interested
vendors then locate the plant material and price the job. Multiple vendors bid each job
and as a result of their bids, the project is awarded to the lowest priced competent
vendor. Once the successful vendor is ready to buy plant material, DOT’s statewide
plant inspector visits the nurseries and tags the material for the project. The vendor then
works under the supervision of Division staff to perform the installation. Once the
contract is completed, future maintenance becomes the Division's responsibility.
In most cases, especially for projects exceeding several tens of thousands of dollars,
vendors for enhancement planting projects are general contractors who engage subcontractors
such as nurseries and landscapers to handle specific components of the
given job. In order to successfully participate in large projects, plant material suppliers
will probably need to establish close working relationships with established vendors.
Bidding for DOT work would be submitted by the vendor after receiving quotes from the
plant material supplier.
The following table exemplifies a typical process “flow” for implementation of contracted
projects:
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 16

Table 2: DOT Project Implementation Flowchart
Becoming a Vendor
Registering as a vendor with the state is required for any nurseries or other purveyors of
plant material who wish to sell to DOT. The process of registering as a vendor, vetting
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 17

projects for bid, filing a formal bid, and executing terms of a contract are time-consuming
and require significant attention to detail.
P&C has a step-by-step online guide to registering as a vendor located at
http://www.doa.state.nc.us/PandC/OnlineEducation/VL/VLRegistration/index.html.
The Following section is taken from the Interactive Purchasing Website
http://www.ips.state.nc.us/ips/vendor/vndpubmain.asp
“The Vendor Registration System is self-administered with a review by a specialist within
the Division of Purchase and Contract. You are responsible for the content of your file
and any subsequent updates. Failure to enter all of the mandatory information will not
enable us to post your vendor file on the Internet. Likewise it is important that all
information is entered correctly. If, for example, you enter an incorrect e-mail address,
we will call you to tell you that the e-mail was returned. If the phone number is also
incorrect, your information shall be deleted.”
“Being a registered vendor does NOT guarantee the receipt of electronic notification for
all applicable solicitations. Vendors must routinely check our IPS Bids site for a listing of
current business opportunities from the Division of Purchase and Contract and other
agencies required to post certain solicitations to this system. The Division of Purchase
and Contract shall not be responsible if a vendor does not receive an electronic
notification for any particular solicitation. This notification is provided as a convenience
only. The Division of Purchase and Contract neither accepts nor assumes responsibility
for electronic notification under all circumstances.”
Commodity Codes
P&C tracks bids and purchases by specific five-digit commodity codes. The first three
digits of a code indicate the material’s general category. For plant materials the most
significant general codes are 595- Nursery Stock, Equipment, and Supplies, and 790-
Seed, Sod, Soil and Inoculants. Specific subcategories are listed below:
Table 3: Commodity Codes 595 and 790
CLASS ITEM
DESCRIPTION
595 00 NURSERY STOCK, EQUIPMENT, AND SUPPLIES
595 10 Bedding Plants and Cuttings
595 15 Bulbs and Seeds
595 26 Edging, Lawn
595 28 Flowers, Fresh
595 30 Fountains, Statues and Other Decorative Lawn and Garden Items
595 33 Grates, Guards, and Other Protective Devices For Trees and Shrubs
595 35 Groundcovers and Vines
595 37 Horticultural Specialties incl. Ornamental Floriculture Products
595 40 Nursery, Greenhouse and Floral Supplies: Labels, Planters, Pots, Tags,
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 18

Trellises, etc.
595 50 Peat Moss
595 52 Perennials
595 55 Plant Foods (Not Fertilizer)
595 58 Plant Shine
595 60
595 61 Plants, Indoor
Plant Sprayers and Respirators, Plant Propagation Mats, etc., and
Accessories
595 62 Recycled Nursery Equipment and Accessories
595 63 Rocks, Ornamental and Decorative
595 65 Shrubbery, Evergreen
595 66 Shrubbery, Flowering
595 70 Trees, Fruit and Nut
595 75 Trees, Ornamental and Shade
595 77 Tropicals
595 80 Turf Blankets, Seeded (Including Recycled)
595 88 Vases, Flower Pots, Pottery, etc.
595 90 Vermiculite and Perlite
595 95 Wood Chips and Bark: Composted, Shredded, Etc.
CLASS ITEM
DESCRIPTION
790 00 SEED, SOD, SOIL, AND INOCULANTS
790 02 Athletic Field Compositions (Baseball Infields, etc.)
790 05 Desert Plant Seed
790 10 Field Seed: Cotton, etc.
790 15 Field Seed: Grains, etc.
790 20 Grass Seed
790 30 Inoculants
790 34 Seed Peanuts
790 37 Rice Seed
790 40 Seed Potatoes
790 50 Sod, Grass
790 54 Soil Mixtures (Special)
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 19

790 60 Sprigs, Grass
790 70 Top Soil and Fill Dirt (For Mulch See Class 335)
790 73 Tree Seeds
790 80 Vegetable Seed
790 95 Recycled
Above listings are taken from the P&C website
DOT Use of Native Plant Materials
As noted in the section above, DOT does make use of native plant materials in many of
its projects. The Fifteen geographic divisions within DOT enjoy a high degree of
autonomy in determining specifications for materials to be purchased for specific
projects within their divisions.
DOT reports that in fiscal year 2005, just under $1.7 million of plant materials were
purchased through both the Department’s Purchasing Unit and P&C. A review of the
data provided indicates that not more than $340,000 of the total purchases can have
been for native plants provided by in-state vendors. This figure may not include plant
materials that were subsumed in large remediation contracts that were awarded to
general contractors. Of the amount reported, nearly $1.4 million was purchased from instate
vendors. However, one-half of the total purchases were for turf grass that was in
fact grown out of state but sold by in-state vendors.
Table 4: NCDOT Comparison of Plant Material Purchased In-State vs. Out-of-State,
Fiscal 2005
EXPENDITURE
VENDOR LOCATIONS TOTAL $
DESCRIPTIO
N
IN STATE %
OUT OF STATE
%
Plant Material:
Ornamentals,
Trees and
Shrubs
Daylilies
Seed:
Turfgrass
Daylilies sent
to Caledonia
State Prison
Farm to grow
for NCDOT
Grown
outside of NC
but sold by instate
vendors;
Used for
Erosion
Control
$421,027
(100%)
$66,808
(50%)
$838,583
(100%)
$421,027
$66,930 (50%) $133,738
$838,583
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 20

Wildflowers
(Native and
Non-native)
Native
Grasses
Does not
include the
native
wildflowers
we grow to
plant on ROW
Statewide
$180,427 (100%) $180,427
$6,170 (22%) 21,587 (78%) $27,757
Wetland
Mitigation:
Live stakes,
3-gallon trees,
Marsh
grasses,
Bare-root tree
seedlings
$52,586
(68%)
$24,504 (32%) $77,090
TOTAL $1,385,174 $293,448 $1,678,622
(82.5%) (17.5%)
These expenditures represent NCDOT direct purchases thru low-bid solicitation through
DOT’s Purchasing Unit and NCDOA’s Division of Purchase and Contract.
Interviews with Division Roadside Environmental Engineers
Project researcher Bryan Freeborn conducted telephone and email interviews with three
roadside environmental engineers at different divisions in DOT, concerning use of plant
materials in their work. Responses are recorded in the following table
Table 5: Responses to Interviews with Roadside Environmental Engineers
Question for
Division Roadside
Engineers Division 14 Central Unit/Raleigh Division 3
What % of plants
and trees that you
use in roadside
projects
perennial
are
What % of plants
and trees that you
use in roadside
projects are
annual
All except some
wildflowers
(cosmos,
poppy, catchfly)
Some
wildflowers
noted above
Enhancement Projects are 100%
perennial plants and trees.
We, typically, only purchase annual
plant material for special event
projects. For example, we purchased
approximately 50,000 annual bedding
plants for the 2005 US Open in
Pinehurst.
Probably
around 75 to
80 % are
perennial.
20 to 25%
annual.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 21

What plants and
trees have you
seen that do well in
roadside projects
for your division
What are the pros
and cons of
flowers vs. trees in
roadside projects
Are there factors
that would
encourage native
or regional plants
in roadside
projects
What native or
regional plants are
you aware of being
used now in
roadside projects
Most all species
with the
exception of a
few depending
on the site
Trees are more
sustainable
while flowers
offer more
immediate
impact
Location and
whether it be
formal or not
Deciduous
hollies, clethra,
itea, azalea,
rhododendron,
dogwood,
maple, oak,
redbud,
inkberry holly,
leucothoe, river
birch
Our designers and division personnel
are mindful that soil types, specific
project needs, and climatic conditions
play a role in plant selection. Plant
selection is based on what works
best based in the regional
conditions. For instance, Oleander
works well in specific coastal areas
but is unsuccessful just a few miles
inland.
Annual bedding plants are used
where the State anticipates an
increase in tourism because of a
special event. Trees have numerous
environmental benefits (e.g., prevent
erosion, cleanse and cool the air,
create buffers, etc.) and of course
annual bedding plants require a
higher level of maintenance than
trees.
The Department's Environmental
Stewardship Program promotes the
use of native plants where
appropriate. The Roadside
Environmental Unit has developed a
program referred to as the Clear
Zone Recovery Program or its
working title is the 'Color/Canopy'
Program. We utilize native grasses
and plants in these areas for added
visual interest, to help stabilize
slopes, and give errant vehicles a
safe recovery zone. In addition, the
Department maintains and protects
almost 100 rights-of-way sites across
the State that contain either federally
or state threatened or endangered
plant species.
We strive to protect and utilize native
plant material whenever practical.
There are numerous native trees,
shrubs and perennials used in our
program.
Daylilies,
crepe myrtles,
Indian
hawthorns,
wildflowers.
Flowers vs.
trees.
Flowers offer
more varieties
and colors but
require more
maintenance
vs. trees.
Yes.
Sustainability,
costs.
Bidens
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 22

Are there native or
regional plants not
being used now
that you would if
there was better
availability
Do you currently
have a working
relationship with
locally owned
nurseries
If so, who
What is the number
of roadside
projects in your
division
What is the total
dollars spent on
plants and trees for
your division in the
most recent Fiscal
Year
Is there any thing
else you can think
we may be missing
in the scope of our
research
Don't know of
any specifically
Yes, particularly in the areas of native
grasses and forbs. The Department
has a history of promoting and
using native plants along the rightsof-way.
In fact, approximately 17
years ago we noticed the native Burmarigold.
Because there was a very
limited supply of seed, we began to
cultivate our own plants for seed
production. Last year we grew 24
acres of Bur-marigold, harvested the
seed, and gave the seed to the
Divisions for roadside planting.
I would like to
do some
native grasses
in seeding
operations if
costs and
establishment
allowed.
Yes Yes Yes. Several
Breezy Acres,
Hillside, Big
Frog, Lynn's,
Hanging Dog
About 3 per
year
$60,000
Not at present
We buy plant material from nurseries
all across NC and if the plant material
can not be located in NC we have the
option to buy it from others. We work
closely with the NC Department of
Agriculture & Consumer Services
(NCDA&CS), The NC Association of
Nurserymen (NCAN), The Green
Industry Council (GIC), the Turf grass
Council of NC (TCNC), and NC State
University specialists to determine
appropriate plant material for projects
statewide.
I would have no way of determining
an exact number to answer this
question.
We receive approximately 3.5 million
dollars in federal enhancement
monies each year. This money is
budgeted for roadside planting
projects. Landscape development
work is also included on numerous
road construction projects. This is
determined by local/regional interest,
future maintenance considerations
and mitigation responsibilities.
I am not sure I have a strong enough
handle on your research proposal to
answer this question. Please feel
free to contact me and I will do my
best to be of additional assistance.
Around 80
Around
$50,000
Not at this
time.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 23

The responses above indicate that DOT personnel are familiar with issues surrounding
use of native plants in their projects, and that they are mindful of using natives in cases
where price, availability, and quality match needs of the given project. Clearly, the
preference is for perennial plants that require minimum post-planting maintenance.
Given the organizational structure of DOT, the size of the state, and the unique climatic
conditions of various regions, most research is focused on the use of native plants in the
western North Carolina region in general and more specifically DOT Regional Division
14 headquartered in Asheville.
Mountain Native Trees on NCDOT materials List
DOT lists the following plant native species used in their work in the western part of the
state:
Amelanchier arborea, Downy Serviceberry
Tsuga canadensis, Canadian (Eastern) Hemlock
Tsuga caroliniana, Carolina Hemlock
Acer saccharum, Sugar Maple
Chionanthus virginicus, White Fringetree
Halesia carolina, Carolina Silverbell
Oxydendrum arboreum, Sourwood
Acer rubrum, Red Maple
Betula nigra, River Birch
Cercis canadensis, Eastern Red Bud
Cladrastis lutea (kentukea)- American Yellowwood
Cornus florida, Flowering Dogwood
Fagus grandiflora, American Beech
Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Green Ash
Liquidambar styraciflua, Sweetgum
Liriodendron tulipifera, Tulip Poplar
Magnolia grandiflora, Southern Magnolia
Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Dawn Redwood
Nyssa sylvatica, Black Gum
Pinus strobus, White Pine
Pinus virginiana, Virginia Pine
Platanus occidentalis, American Plane Tree (or Sycamore)
Quercus alba, White Oak
Quercus coccinea, Scarlet Oak
Quercus falcata, Southern Red Oak
Quercus phellos, Willow Oak
Taxodium distichum, Bald Cypress
Juniperus virginiana- Eastern Red Cedar
Quercus palustris, Pin Oak
Mountain Native Shrubs on NCDOT Material List
Cornus sericea, Redosier Dogwood
Myrica pensylvanica, Northern Bayberry
Aesculus parviflora, Bottlebrush Buckeye
Aronia arbutifolia, Red Chokeberry
Callicarpa americana, American Beautyberry
Clethra alnifolia, Summersweet
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 24

Fothergilla gardenii, Dwarf Fothergilla
Hamemelis virginiana, Witchhazel
Hydrangea quercifolia, Oakleaf Hydrangea
Ilex glabra, Inkberry
Ilex opaca, American Holly
Ilex verticillata, Winterberry
Itea virginica, Virginia Sweetspire
The following table lists plant native plant species known to be in use by DOT in recent
projects. Only plants that are listed as either statewide in use or specific to the
mountains are listed:
Table 6: Trees and Shrubs Currently Used by DOT
Trees Currently Used
Amelanchier arborea, Downy Serviceberry, D, ST, FL,
FR, BK, XFC
Tsuga canadensis, Canadian (Eastern) Hemlock- E, LT,
FR, H/S
Tsuga caroliniana, Carolina Hemlock- E, LT, FR, H/S
Acer saccharum, Sugar Maple- D, LT, XFC
Chionanthus virginicus, White Fringetree- D, ST, FL, FR
Halesia carolina, Carolina Silverbell- D, LT, FL, FR
Oxydendrum arboreum, Sourwood- D, ST, FL, FR, BK,
XFC
Acer rubrum, Red Maple- D, LT, XFC
Betula nigra, River Birch- D, LT, BK
Cercis canadensis, Eastern Red Bud- D, ST, FL
Cladrastis lutea (kentukea)- American Yellowwood- LT,
FL, XFC
Cornus florida, Flowering Dogwood- D, ST, FL, FR, XFC
Fagus grandiflora, American Beech- D, LT, FR, BK, XFC
Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Green Ash- D, LT
Liquidambar styraciflua, Sweetgum (the fruitless variety
may be more practical for residential use)- D, LT, FR,
XFC
Liriodendron tulipifera, Tulip Poplar- D, LT, FL, XFC
Magnolia grandiflora, Southern Magnolia- E, LT, FL, FR,
H/S
Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Dawn Redwood- D, LT,
H/S, XFC
Nyssa sylvatica, Black Gum- D, LT, FR, BK, XFC
Pinus strobus, White Pine- E, LT, H/S
Pinus virginiana, Virginia Pine- E, LT, H/S
Platanus occidentalis, American Plane Tree (or
Sycamore)- D, LT, FR, BK
Quercus alba, White Oak, D, LT,
Quercus coccinea, Scarlet Oak- D, LT, FR, XFC
Quercus falcata, Southern Red Oak- D, LT, FR
Quercus phellos, Willow Oak- D, LT, FR
Taxodium distichum, Bald Cypress- E, LT, BK, XFC
Juniperus virginiana- Eastern Red Cedar- E, LT, H/S
Native/Regional
native, mtn
native, mtn
native, mtn
native, mtn, pied
native, mtn, pied
native, mtn, pied
native, mtn, pied
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native, statewide
native,statewide
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 25

Quercus palustris, Pin Oak- D, LT, FR, XFC
native,statewide
KEY: (Size Categories based on average size at maturity) E-evergreen, D-
deciduous, LT- large tree (30'- taller), ST- small tree (15'- 30'), LS- large shrub, MSmedium
shrub, SS- small shrub, G-groundcover, FL- conspicuous flower, FRconspicuous
fruit, BK- attractive bark or stem color, H/S-good hedge/screen, XFCexceptional
fall color.
It is important to note that just because a plant species is considered native does NOT
indicate that the plant materials are acquired by suppliers located in the state or even
within the given plant’s native growing region. In fact, research indicates that a
substantial number of “native” plant materials are acquired from large-scale greenhouse
and nursery growers located in the Midwestern United States, particularly Missouri. As
mentioned, federal law prohibits restricting purchases based on whether a supplier is
located within a given state.
Commercial Infrastructure for the Supply of Native Plants
Research indicates a high degree of commercial interest among western North Carolina
growers in supplying DOT with native plant materials. However, very few of those
growers are currently registered vendors with the State.
P&C’s online Interactive Purchasing System (IPS) lists all vendors who are registered to
sell to the state by their product commodity code. The system lists 170 companies that
are registered to sell Commodity Code 595- Nursery Stock, Equipment, and Supplies. Of
that number, 118 are companies with locations in North Carolina. Only 15 of those
companies are located in western North Carolina.
IPS lists 162 companies that are registered to sell Commodity Code 790- Seed, Sod,
Soil, and Inoculants. Of that number, 132 are companies with locations in North
Carolina. Only 16 of those companies are located in western North Carolina.
Researchers called the 27 unique businesses in western NC that were registered
vendors to the state under Commodity Codes 595 and 790 (Four companies were
registered under both codes). Of 20 companies contacted, only three said that they
were providers of native plant materials; Carolina Native Nursery, Rhinehart’s Saw
& Lawn, and Southeastern Native Plant Nursery. Two additional companies,
Hawksridge Farms and Quaker Meadows Nursery, said they supplied plant materials but
did not differentiate their products as native. The remaining companies were suppliers of
materials other than plants or were otherwise bidders as project general contractors.
It should be noted that general contractors often source their plant materials from subcontract
suppliers. Some western NC companies that do not directly produce plant
materials for the state may be able to procure plants from nurseries that are not
themselves registered with P&C.
The following two tables list those western NC companies that are currently registered
as vendors with the state:
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 26

Table 7: Western North Carolina Companies Registered to Supply Commodity
Code 595
Nursery Stock, Equipment, and Supplies
Company
Address City County Contact Info
Name
Carolina
Mulch Plus,
Inc.
229 Brown
Rd
Pisgah
Forest
TRANSYLVANI
A
Hutchins, Theresa
(828)884-9100 x
(828)884-7039
theresa@carolinamulchplus.c
om
Carolina
Native
Nursery
1126
Prices
Creek Rd
Burnsville YANCEY
Jones, Bill
(828)682-1471 x
(828)682-1471
bill@carolinanativenursery.
com
Colonial
Acres
Nursery
2601
Hannah
Ford Rd.
Brevard
TRANSYLVANI
A
Paxton, Harold
(828)884-4330 x
(828)884-4330
canursery@citcom.net
Have Truck-
Will Haul
5773 Long
Bay Drive
Granite
Falls
CALDWELL
McDowell, Richard
(828)308-0631 x
TMackDo@hotmail.co
m
Hawksridge
Farms, Inc.
PO Box
3349
HICKORY CATAWBA
Hefner, Tina
(828)294-2081 x
(828)294-4299
(800)874-4216
tina@hawksridgefarms.c
om
Hickory
Home And
Garden
Center
336 HWY
321 NW
Hickory CATAWBA Poland, Aaron
(828)327-2877 x
(828)327-6234
hhgchardware@charter.
net
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 27

James
Farms &
Trucking,
Inc
P.O. Box
158
Scaly
Mountain
MACON
James, Karl
(828)526-3185 x
(828)526-3185
jamesfarms@webtv.
net
Morganton
Feed and
Seed
105 w.
concord St
Morganton BURKE
Upton, Matt
(828)437-4594 x
(828)437-4594
lastchoice1001@yahoo.c
om
Quaker
Meadows
Nursery
2310
McConnau
ghey Lane
P.O. Box
1610
Morganton BURKE
Taylor, Nancy
(828)437-
2063 x
(828)428-
0016
qmn@hci.net
RCD
Professional
Landscaping
& Plant
19 Israel
Road
Candler BUNCOMBE Deffenbaugh,
Rebecca
(828)667-1199 x
(828)667-2199
RCD4plants@aol.co
m
Rhinehart"s
Saw & Lawn
Satterfield's
Briarpatch
37 US 221
Business
N
162 Angel
Drive
Marion MCDOWELL McClure, La Vonne
(828)652-5399 x
(828)652-8580
rhineharts@charterinternet.c
om
Robbinsvill
e
GRAHAM
Satterfield, Betty
(828)479-8013 x
bettys@graham.main.nc
.us
Shoebridge
landscaping
Inc.
3262 47th
Ave Pl. NE
Hickory CATAWBA Shoebridge, Todd
(828)256-1665 x
(828)256-1665
shoebridgehydro@hotmail.
com
Southeaster
n Native
36 Kel Co
Rd.
Candler
BUNCOMBE
Martin Brad
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 28

Plant
Nursery
United Ag
Products
UAP
Southeast
P.O. Box
228
Dana
HENDERSON
Carver, Richard
(828)692-0214 x
(828)692-9007
(800)342-3931
applegrwr@aol.com
Table 8: Western North Carolina Companies Registered to Supply Commodity
Code 790
Seed, Sod, Soil, and Inoculants
Company
Name Address City County Contact
Baker
Grading &
Landscaping
, Inc
970 Bat
Cave
Road
Old Fort MCDOWELL Baker, Mark
(828)668-7659 x
(828)765-9944
mark.baker@bakergrading
.com
Carolina
Mulch Plus,
Inc.
229
Brown
Rd
Pisgah
Forest
TRANSYLVANI
A
Hutchins, Theresa
(828)884-9100 x
(828)884-7039
theresa@carolinamulchplu
s.com
Carvers
Waste
Disposal
93
Martha
Way
Waynesvill
e
HAYWOOD
Roberts, Jason
(828)226-8008 x
milkcow@earthlink.net
Deffenbaugh
Enviromental
Services
JAMES
RIVER
EQUIPMEN
T
CAROLINA,
LLC
K&M
Products of
NC Inc.
19 Israel
rd
288
WESTG
ATE
DRIVE
3248
Patton
Road
Candler BUNCOMBE Deffenbaugh, Forrest
(828)667-2199 x
(828)667-2199
Guy6189@bellsouth.net
Wilkesboro
WILKES
JOHNSON, JERRY
(336)973-8201 x
(336)973-8496
jjohnson@jrenet.com
Franklin MACON Kirkland, Judy
(828)524-5905 x
(828)369-3739
(800)524-5905
kmproducts@dnet.net
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 29

Morganton
Feed and
Seed
Mountain Vet
Supply
RCD
Professional
Landscaping
& Plant Sal
RIVERVIEW
CONSTRUC
TION CO.
Seay's Farm
and Garden
Center, Inc.
Shoebridge
landscaping
Inc.
spencer's
hardware
farm and
garden
Trail of Tears
Gun - Knifes
and Security
United Ag
Products
UAP
Southeast
105 w.
concord
St
P.O. Box
5343
19 Israel
Road
182
Perkins
Rd.
368 East
Main St.
3262
47th Ave
Pl. NE
1612
Rutherfo
rd Rd
15091
Joe
Brown
Hwy
P.O. Box
228
Morganton BURKE Upton, Matt
(828)437-4594 x
(828)437-4594
lastchoice1001@yahoo.co
m
Asheville BUNCOMBE Fisher, Robert
(828)667-1700 x
(828)667-1700
(800)277-1451
mvstony@aol.com
Candler BUNCOMBE Deffenbaugh, Rebecca
(828)667-1199 x
(828)667-2199
RCD4plants@aol.com
Bakersville MITCHELL Johnson, Dorothy
(828)688-4250 x
(828)688-9791
riverview426@aol.com
Franklin MACON Seay, Roger, Jr.
(828)524-2621 x
bseay@dnet.net
Hickory CATAWBA Shoebridge, Todd
(828)256-1665 x
(828)256-1665
shoebridgehydro@hotmail.
com
Marion MCDOWELL Silver, Steve
(828)652-3958 x
(828)652-8335
steves@mydoitbest.com
Murphy CHEROKEE Jordan, Peggyanne
(828)835-8884 x
bpkjordan@verizon.net
Dana HENDERSON Carver, Richard
(828)692-0214 x
(828)692-9007
(800)342-3931
applegrwr@aol.com
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 30

Wildwood
Consulting,
LLC
24
Willow
Rd.
Asheville BUNCOMBE Hicks, Ed
(828)252-3800 x
(828)252-3801
wlwd@charter.net
Conversations with professional service providers indicates that a number of former
tobacco growers have an interest in transitioning to commercial greenhouse and nursery
operations in western North Carolina. Grant programs funded by the North Carolina
Tobacco Trust Fund have provided small grants to several of these farmers in Yancey
County and elsewhere in the region to assist in this transition. These farmers often have
necessary infrastructure for this type of production, including greenhouses and irrigation
systems that could be applied to commercial production of plant materials.
However, a discussion with the executive director of the North Carolina Association of
Nurserymen (NCAN) indicates that a controversy surrounds the concept of “native”
versus “non-native” plants in commercial application. As an organization that represents
established commercial interests in the nursery and greenhouse industry, NCAN does
not endorse delineation of plant materials as “native” or “non-native.” In addition the
organization does not advocate increased participation in the nursery and greenhouse
industry by agricultural producers switching from production of other crops such as
tobacco.
Researcher Interviews
On May 10 and May 11 2006, project researchers Smithson Mills, Phillip Gibson and
Bryan Freeborn visited Raleigh to meet with officials and industry leaders to discuss
increased use of native Plants in DOT projects. Following is a synopsis of discussions
with these individuals.
Britt Cobb, Secretary, North Carolina Department of Administration- Secretary
Cobb explained the North Carolina State procurement process as administered by
DOA’s Purchase & Contracts Division. Some of the more important findings from our
interview included:
1- Bids cannot specify in-state sourcing due to federal law;
2-Specific purchasing teams within P&C are responsible for specific commodity codes;
3-Bids are opened every Thursday.
4-DOT is very pro-active in supporting Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs),
which are generally women and minority-owned businesses. The state has a specific
target of allocating a percentage of contracts to HUBs. Because percentages can be
allocated within an over-all bid by a large contractor, general contractors are encouraged
to use HUBs as sub-contractors when bidding for state work.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 31

Secretary Cobb also recommended that researchers investigate the use of native plants
at state historic sites managed by the Division of Cultural Resources, as well as visitor
centers on state highways.
Ron Gelvin, Executive Director, North Carolina Association of Nurserymen (NCAN)
Mr. Gelvin informed researchers that his organization has struggled with the designation
of certain plants as “native,” for commercial application, and has made a decision not to
support the use of native plants over non-native plants. There is a concern among
existing nurseries that, with the end of the tobacco price support system, a large number
of former tobacco growers may try to enter the nursery plant business, diluting market
share and decreasing quality of statewide production. Mr. Gelvin also expressed serious
concern with DOT’s use of prison farms and prison labor to grow seeds and seed stock,
as well as allowing the State Forestry Service to supply tree seedlings to the state for
plantings. These activities, Mr. Gelvin believes, are in violation of the state’s Umstead
Act, which prohibits businesses from operating on state property for extended lengths of
time. Mr. Gelvin also said his association is collaborating with the National Agricultural
Statistics Service of USDA on an economic impact analysis for the nursery industry in
North Carolina.
Ross Williams, Assistant Director, Division of Marketing, North Carolina
Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, (NCDA&CS)
Mr. Williams directs marketing efforts for NCDA&CS serving the greenhouse and
nursery industry in the state. Mr. Williams gave a brief overview of marketing efforts and
noted that Bill Glenn, NCDA&CS Horticultural Marketing Specialist, is based at the WNC
Farmer’s Market in Asheville and may have information useful to the project.
Researchers discussed with Mr. Williams the new NCDA&CS marketing campaign, “Got
To Be NC,” which supports the state’s commodity associations including the North
Carolina Association of Nurserymen. He indicated that some funds used in this
marketing campaign could be used to raise consumer awareness of native plants, but
expressed caution about how NCAN would react to a concerted effort to promote use of
native plants over other commercial species.
NC Department of Transportation
Don Lee, Director, Roadside Environmental Unit,
Donnie Thorne, Director, Purchasing Division
Lacy Love, Director, Asset Management
Derek Smith, Vegetation Management Supervisor
David B. Harris, Roadside Erosion Control & Vegetation Management Engineer
This impressive number of DOT decision makers met with researchers the morning of
May 11 for approximately two hours. Don Lee was aware of efforts to increase use of
native plants in roadside beautification projects and appeared to welcome the idea of a
pilot project to introduce more use of natives. He encouraged researchers to focus on
specific geographic divisions within the DOT system and to work with division engineers
and perhaps even DOT Board of Directors members. Discussion turned to the possibility
of a pilot or demonstration project at the intersection of Smoky Park Highway and
Interstate 40 at exit 44. In this instance, DOT would respond if the local municipality
(Asheville) made a request for a specific planting design that the City would agree to
provide maintenance for. Usually such designs are made a season ahead of actual
planting- rarely are design and associated bids let out further than one year.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 32

Discussion then turned to the procurement process as explained elsewhere in this
report. Given that the process is confusing to many, researchers asked if DOT would
have interest in cooperating with training workshops to teach nurseries and greenhouse
businesses how to bid on state projects. DOT was very positive about this and said they
would like to assist.
Mr. Lee explained a new initiative his division is developing, called the Clear Zone
Improvement Program (C-ZIP). C-ZIP has the primary goal of finding a viable solution to
the regeneration of over-story trees on multi-lane routes that encroach upon roadway
corridors and create safety and maintenance hazards. Over the next few years, Mr. Lee
indicated 90 new construction projects would be applicable for C-ZIP improvement,
affecting an estimated 800 associated miles. He encouraged researchers to investigate
the possibility of increasing use of native plants through upcoming C-ZIP projects.
Recommendations for Future Action
1. Develop a pilot project in western North Carolina to demonstrate the use of
native plants in state government work. WWC should identify a project in the region
that can optimize the use of native plants and gain widespread exposure. The project
site should be highly visible, open to the public, and be suitable for native mountain
plants to grow well. An optimal site would also be a low speed area where descriptive
markers could be read. For this reason, WWC may want to identify a location on a city
street rather than a highway.
DOT programs that could lend themselves to a pilot project include:
Clear Zone Improvement Program (C-ZIP) - This program was presented by NCDOT
staff as a possible pilot project for introductions of more native plants, trees, and shrubs.
The over all objective is to create a “safety clear zone”. One of the objectives is to “utilize
native vegetation (color/canopy) to improve the natural environment along these
selected routes.” NCDOT staff has established a desire to establish partnerships with
educational, environmental, and nursery industry organizations to establish and manage
native plants in the scope of the C-Zip project. This represents a key opportunity to meet
the goals of this research project to establish native plantings within NCDOT Roadside
projects and aid native plant nurseries in expanding their market.
French Broad Metropolitan Planning Organization TIP- The Transportation
Improvement Plan for the French Broad MPO represents a 20 year outlook of projects
that will have or could have roadside beatification projects. DOT officials expressed a
desire to work with regional nurseries that produce native plants suitable for TIP
projects.
Short-term, there is a project on the I 240 corridor that NCDOT Division staff expressed
high interest in collaborating with native plant producers. Steps need to gain participation
in this and other division projects include:
• Build a list of plant materials to offer NCDOT staff, along with suppliers.
• Identify 1 to 5 projects to be let in the next 5 years that are suitable candidates
for introduction of native materials.
General Enhancement Projects- There are twelve types of general projects that
NCDOT oversees that have enhancement components. They represent ongoing
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 33

opportunities to be mindful of. They are often high profile high visibility projects that
could lend greatly in marketing exposure for the native plant industry.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety
• Landscaping and Other Scenic Beautification
• Scenic or Historic Highway Programs (Includes Tourist and Welcome Centers)
• Acquisition of Scenic Easements and Scenic or Historic Site
• Historic Preservation Rehabilitation of Historic Transportation Facilities (Including
Historic Railroad Facilities and Canals)
• Preservation of Abandoned Railway Corridors for Trail
• Control and Removal of Outdoor Advertising
• Archaeological Planning and Research
• Environmental Mitigation of Pollution due to Highway Runoff and Reduce Vehicle
Caused wildlife Mortality
• Establishment of Transportation Museums
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities (Sidewalks)
On August 12, 2006, the Asheville Citizen-Times reported that Mountain Housing
Opportunities, Inc., and the City of Asheville were awarded DOT Enhancement Funds to
improve a portion of the Clingman Avenue/Haywood Road Corridor. The area will
reportedly upgrade landscaping, bike lanes, storm water management, and parking.
Due to budget restrictions, there is no scheduled call for proposals under this program in
fiscal year 2007. The next regularly scheduled Call for Transportation Enhancement
Projects is 2008.
While the DOT is the most likely collaborator, other state government entities could also
play a role. The North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources operates the Vance
Homestead. This pioneer farmstead, tucked in the Reems Creek Valley, features the
birthplace of Zebulon Baird Vance, North Carolina's Civil War governor. The five-room
log house and its outbuildings are furnished to evoke the period from 1795 to 1840 when
three successive generations of the famed mountain family lived here. The use of native
plants for landscaping could fit well with maintaining the historic character of the site.
The North Carolina Division of Forest Resources, also known as the NC State Forest
Service, could play a supportive role for a pilot project. The State Forest Service
administers the Urban and Community Forestry Grant, which awards up to $15,000 for
community forestation projects. While many criteria are used for determining successful
projects for funding, the use of native plant species is specifically mentioned as a factor
that increases award amounts for planting and raises chances of funding. Naturalization
projects can be combined with tree planting, where native species are used and
environmental benefits to the community are emphasized. Planning and development,
assessments and studies, maps and drawings, promotional and educational materials
may be eligible for funding when matched with a solid volunteer and in-kind staffing
match. Forest buffers, connecting corridors between fragmented wooded areas, riparian
buffers/protection, or reduction of mowing maintenance in municipal parks through edge
naturalization, are some naturalization projects that will be considered for grants.
Projects which have a commitment to using native species of large and small trees,
shrubs and other plants, will be considered for a higher purchase limit, particularly when
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 34

they emphasize natural restoration, wildlife habitat or conservation priorities, riparian
stabilization, soil and water conservation and community/volunteer involvement.
2. Develop a certification plan for native plants. In the nursery and greenhouse
business a good deal of controversy and confusion surrounds the use of the term
“native.” Many large established commercial greenhouse operators are actively hostile to
the idea that some plants should be used because of their place of origin, and argue that
it is difficult if not impossible to determine a plant as being native when flora are
constantly migrating due to human or environmental influences. Regardless, there are
enough factors to determine with some degree of certainty whether a plant is native or
non-native, particularly if clear definitions of set criteria are adopted.
Developing a “certified native” program has many advantages. Primarily, it differentiates
plant species and plant sources in a way that would allow state government bid
processes to specify a preference for “native” without violating the Interstate Commerce
Clause of the US Constitution. Certifying plants as native based on their indigenous
location within a commonly accepted, non-political geographical region could be
accepted criteria for winning a state bid. The Southern Appalachian region is a prime
example, which can include northern Georgia, eastern Tennessee, Upstate South
Carolina, western North Carolina, and western Virginia.
WWC should investigate collaborating with the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture
Project (ASAP), which has recently launched a certified local program for fresh produce.
ASAP could expand its certification service to include nursery and greenhouse stock.
3. Develop an outreach and education program to increase western North Carolina
participation in the state bid process. With as few as only five registered plant
vendors located in western North Carolina, there is clearly a need for reaching more
potential vendors for the state bid process. DOT officials reacted positively to the
suggestion of increasing educational outreach for vendor registration, and additional
support could be available from NCDA&CS.
A logical venue for teaching people interested in the state vending system is the ASAP
marketing conference, held each year at WWC. Instructors from the Center for
Environmental Leadership and DOT District 14 could lead attendees in a step-by-step
process on how to register and how to submit bids for projects. Additional information on
upcoming projects in the region using plant materials can also be shared.
The Value of Appalachian Grown Labeling for Nursery Growers 35