WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) - One of the main topics at this week's National Christmas Tree Association convention is the use of illegal immigrants by farmers.

Immigration reform could jeopardize Christmas tree farms throughout the country.

Grower David Cartner of Avery County says the workers are crucial during harvest time.

"It might make it impossible," said Cartner. "Impossible or cost prohibitive."

Craig Regelbrugge of the American Nursery Association says he's concerned that immigration reform could lead to less revenue for tree farmers.

"What we are going to see is apples from China, tomatoes and peppers from Mexico and our Christmas trees are going to come from Canada," he said.

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This is the first time Winston-Salem has hosted the convention, which brings in an estimated $400,000.

The last time the convention was held in the state was in Asheville in 1998.

The four-day convention is being held at Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem.

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