Search for 2018 state Christmas tree begins

LANSING — Christmas is over 6 months away, but Michigan’s Department of Technology, Management and Budget officially began the search for the tree that will adorn the Capitol for the 2018 holiday season.

According to DTMB Director Dave DeVries, the department relies on the public’s help to find a great tree.

“When traveling around the state this summer, our hope is that Michiganders will keep their eyes peeled for just the right tree and let us know when they find it,” he said in a statement.

To be considered for the official state Christmas tree, it needs to be a spruce or fir. The tree has to be at least 55 feet tall, with a maximum crown of 24 feet and maximum trunk diameter of 30 inches.

The tree must be located within easy access of a road, with no interference from wires, and available at no cost.

DTMB works with the Michigan Association of Timbermen and Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association to bring the tree to Lansing. In the last 31 years, trees have come from locations across the state – from back yards to public land near highways and forests.

Last year’s tree was harvested in Stephenson. It was the 23rd tree to be selected from the Upper Peninsula.

The deadline for tree nominations is Wednesday, August 15th, 2018. Individuals who wish to nominate a tree are asked to send their name, telephone number, a photograph of the tree and information about its size and location to ChristmasTree@michigan.gov, or by mail to:

Christmas Tree Search
Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget
Building Operations Division
P.O. Box 30026
Lansing, MI 48909