Christmas Tree Farms Battle Climate Challenges

Christmas tree farms across the United States are grappling with the impacts of climate change, facing challenges from excess rain in Vermont to drought in Oregon and hurricane-induced landslides in North Carolina. Vermont's farms, such as Moffatt’s and Balsam Acres, have seen significant tree losses due to saturated soils, while in North Carolina, landslides from Hurricane Helene posed a greater threat than flooding, with potential disease spread among Fraser firs. Oregon's tree farms are suffering from drought and extreme heat, which exacerbate pest and disease issues. Across the country, farmers are dealing with weather extremes that result in browning needles, stunted growth, and increased vulnerability to diseases. The National Christmas Tree Association highlights that these climate risks threaten an industry already recovering from past supply shortages. As Minnesota's farms face similar mixed weather challenges, experts stress the importance of continuous monitoring and adaptation to changing conditions.