Whether you have always cut your own Christmas tree, or have been thinking about doing it for the first time this year, this is the perfect time to grab your tree and help out nature. Come select your own spruce tree to chop down and take home as your Christmas tree! Previous landowners planted spruce trees on the property, however they do not grow naturally in this area, so we are removing them to help native species recover and thrive.

Coniferous trees do not typically occur in the Aspen Parkland ecoregion and their presence may negatively affect the habitat for the plants and animals calling this area home. Spruce trees may alter the soil chemistry when they shed their needles making the soil more acidic, which is inhospitable to many plants. Spruce trees also provide refuge or corridors for animals that may not otherwise occur in the area. Altering the species composition of animals on the landscape may be favorable for some but unfavorable for others. Removing the spruce trees will help return ecological integrity to the Messier property and restore it to its former glory.

Once everyone has their Christmas trees, we will enjoy a hot chocolate snacks, and a nature walk!

If you would like to carpool, or need a ride, add your name to the list here! Please keep in mind the logistics of transporting your trees back home when signing up for a carpool.