North Carolina Farm Supplies White House Christmas Tree

Cartner's Christmas Tree Farm in Avery County, North Carolina, will provide the White House with a 20-foot Fraser fir this holiday season, despite suffering extensive damage from Hurricane Helene. The storm destroyed 5,000 to 6,000 smaller trees through mudslides, but the selected tree symbolizes resilience and hope for the local community. Co-owner Sam Cartner Jr. emphasized the tree's role as an uplifting symbol for other farmers facing similar challenges. The 25-year-old tree, which will be presented to First Lady Jill Biden, highlights the farm's commitment to quality and perseverance. Despite infrastructure repairs needed after the hurricane, the Cartner family remains optimistic about the upcoming harvest season. The farm's recognition as the grand champion at the National Christmas Tree Association contest adds to the significance of this year's selection.