News release

Real Christmas Trees Donated to Charity

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

Nova Scotians can help the environment and the economy by choosing a real Christmas tree from their own province to enjoy in their homes.

The province is promoting the Nova Scotia Christmas tree industry by giving trees to three local charities. It's an annual tradition. The trees were presented by the Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers' Association, today, Dec. 14, to Lt.-Gov Mayann Francis, Premier Darrell Dexter and Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker.

"The Christmas tree tradition in Nova Scotia goes back to the 1840s with the first decorated indoor tree in the country, at a home in Halifax," said Mr. Parker. "Continuing that tradition with real trees keeps artificial versions from eventually adding to our landfills while supporting an important industry."

At a ceremony outside Province House, Lt.-Gov. Francis donated her tree to New Leaf Enterprises, which helps people with disabilities develop job skills, Premier Dexter donated his tree to the Home of the Guardian Angel - Single Parent Centre, and Mr. Parker donated his to Metro Turning Point Centre, a shelter for men, operated by Shelter Nova Scotia.

"We are extremely appreciative of this gift," said Bill Pratt, executive director of Shelter Nova Scotia. "The tree brings Christmas into the shelter which is a wonderful thing for the men who stay there."

The trees came from Nova Scotia Christmas tree growers Bruce Turner, Murray Crouse and Jeffrey Reeves.

Real trees have many benefits. They are biodegradable, nearly carbon neutral and recyclable. After the holidays, they may be composted or used as bird feeders, potpourri ingredients, or winter garden cover.

More than 1.5 million Nova Scotia balsam fir trees are exported annually to other provinces, the United States, and overseas. There are 2,500 Nova Scotia Christmas tree growers and the industry means about $30 million each year to the economy as well as close to 500 full-time and 2,500 seasonal jobs.

Tips about real tree selection and care, and locations of Nova Scotia Christmas tree retailers and U-Cut operations are at www.gov.ns.ca/natr with the Tips About Natural Christmas Trees link.