News release

Real Christmas Trees Donated to Charity

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

This holiday season people can support the economy and the environment by choosing to enjoy a real Christmas tree, grown in Nova Scotia.

The province is promoting Nova Scotia's Christmas tree industry by giving trees to four local non-profit groups, an annual tradition. The trees were presented by the Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers' Association, today, Dec. 11, to Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant, Premier Darrell Dexter, Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker and Agriculture Minister John MacDonell.

"Nova Scotia was home to the first decorated indoor tree in Canada, at a home in Halifax back in the 1840s," said Mr. Parker. "We're happy to continue the tradition. Real trees keep artificial ones from eventually adding to our landfills while supporting an important industry."

At a ceremony outside Province House, Lt.-Gov. Grant donated his tree to Camp Hill Veterans Hospital, and Premier Dexter donated his tree to the Home of the Guardian Angel Single Parent Centre. Mr. Parker donated his to Metro Turning Point Centre, a shelter for men, and Mr. MacDonell donated his tree to Adsum House Women's and Children's Shelter.

"The tree is amazing - it really makes Christmas come alive for our women, children, and staff," said Sheri Lecker, executive director for Adsum House. "They'll decorate the tree this week in time for our annual party, which brings nearly 100 people together, including current and former clients. We are grateful for this special gift."

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

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.