The “People’s Tree,” a 73-inch Engleman Spruce, will be cut from the White River National Forest’s Blanco Ranger District near Meeker, Colo., on Nov. 2, and will make its way to the nation’s capitol via stops in Colorado and around the country.
“I’m thrilled that Colorado’s White River National Forest was selected to gift a tree from Colorado to the nation. Our state’s open spaces, outdoor recreation and tourism industry are key parts of what makes Colorado such a special place to live and work. This tree will be a symbol of what makes Colorado a great state,” Udall said. “It also is a visible reminder of the challenges facing our forests — from a widespread beetle epidemic to the most severe wildfire season in recent memory — and the work we have ahead of us to ensure their health.”
This is a unique opportunity for Rio Blanco County to highlight Colorado’s great outdoors and natural resources, while also underscoring the importance of keeping our state’s forests healthy and instituting good forest-management practices to mitigate wildfire danger. The past summer was one of our state’s toughest droughts and most severe fire seasons. One of the partners for the project, Choose Outdoors, will raise funds during the tour for restoration efforts for the High Park and Waldo Canyon fires.
The nationwide celebration starts in Meeker on Nov. 6. The tree will be delivered to the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 26 and decorated with 5,000 homemade ornaments from Coloradans before its lighting in December.
Colorado Tour
Nov. 6: Meeker | Rangely | Steamboat Spgs.
Nov. 7: Dillon | Glenwood Springs
Nov. 8: Grand Junction | Montrose
Nov. 9: Cortez | Durango
Nov. 10: Pagosa Springs | Alamosa
Nov. 11: Colorado Springs | Denver
Nov. 12: Greeley | La Junta
For more information on the 2012 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree and related events — including a song and art contest and plans for its Washington, D.C. arrival — visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/whiteriver.
