Christmas Trees Options in Fort Collins

If you are new to town or have been here for many years you may not be aware of all the different options for Christmas trees.  I have a background in Ecology and am concerned about my impact on the environment, so I have always felt a bit torn when facing the Christmas tree dilemma.  Nothing screams the holidays like a fresh cut Christmas tree, covered in lights and ornaments forming the centerpiece of your holiday season.  However, I always think about where that tree came from and feel those pangs of post holiday guilt when I drop it off at the Christmas tree "recycling center".  The good news is that there are some conscientious options right here in our own back yard. 

We have a great program here put on through the Canyon Lakes Ranger District of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest.  You can go cut your own Christmas tree up near Red Feather Lakes.  Now, I know your next thought....but Erik, you think it is great to go cut a tree down in the national forest.  Isn't all the logging and clear cutting a problem?  Not in this case.  This is a specially designated area that is an old clear cut that is in a rejuvenation phase.  The young trees are coming in very thickly and need to be thinned.  By properly choosing your tree, you are actually making a healthier forest by allowing room for the remaining trees to grow properly, stretch their limbs, so to speak. 

You can get all the details by HERE.  For $10, pack a picnic lunch and hot chocolate, and take your family and friends, dogs, cats, parakeets, up to the cutting area near Red Feather and choose your tree.  The dates are Dec. 3rd-11th.  You can buy permits there BUT ONLY ON THE WEEKENDS.  For a during the week cutting, pick up your permit from the Ranger Office in FC before you go.

This is a great program and lots of fun.  If you can't make it all the way to cut your own, then head out to the tree lot beside the Bellvue Bean.  They cut trees from the same area of the national forest and you can get some great hot drinks and food from The Bean while you are there. 

When choosing your tree always think about where that tree is from.  A fir shipped in from Washington or Oregon may be pretty, but think of the impact of shipping that tree across the country.  Choose a local tree and a local supplier when making your purchase. 

Also, a live tree that you can plant after the holidays is also a great option.  I am sure one of the local nurseries would be thrilled to help you out.

Here is to Happy Holidays!