Hunt for State Christmas Tree Begins

The search for the State of Michigan Christmas Tree has begun. The state is now taking nominations for the 2013 Christmas tree that will ultimately sit on the front lawn of the Capitol this November.

The Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) is partnering with the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association to bring the tree to Lansing. Past trees have been found in various locations across the state, including the Upper Peninsula. Last year's tree came from Jackson.

Phil Jeffery, Chief Deputy Director for DTMB, says he knows "it seems odd to start the search for a Christmas Tree at the beginning of summer" but "in order to have time to conduct the search and be ready for the lighting festivities in November, this is when we need to start the process."

The state requires the following in order for a tree to be considered:

• Must be a spruce or fir.
• Height must be a minimum of 65 feet, with a maximum crown of 30 feet and maximum trunk diameter of 30 inches.
• Must be easily accessible from a road with no interference from wires.
• Available at no cost.

Nominations are requested bu July 31, 2013 Individuals wishing to nominate a tree are asked to send their name, telephone number, a photograph of the tree and information about its size and location to ChristmasTree@Michigan.gov.