On December 11, 2024, Governor Mike Parson hosted a ceremony proclaiming December as Christmas Tree Month in Missouri. The proclamation was presented to winners of the Missouri Christmas Tree Association\u2019s annual wreath and tree contests, held earlier this year at the association\u2019s annual convention.<\/p>\n
\u201cLive Christmas trees are a staple in homes throughout Missouri during the holiday season,\u201d said\u00a0Governor Mike Parson. \u201cThe First Lady and I love celebrating these classic holiday symbols grown by Missouri farmers. We are proud to proclaim December as Christmas Tree Month as we continue to recognize our farmers and ranchers for their contributions to our state. Agriculture is Missouri’s top economic driver, and Christmas tree farms are a perfect example of how Missouri farmers and ranchers provide quality products to consumers year-round.\u201d<\/p>\n
Lloyd\u2019s Family Farm in Ashland won the tree contest and has provided a 10-foot tree to the Missouri Capitol. Located outside the Governor’s Office, the scotch pine tree has been growing at Lloyd\u2019s for seven years. Deeply rooted in family legacy, Lloyd’s is operated by sixth-generation farmers, Zach and Erin Diederich, and has been operating in the community since 1877. At Lloyd’s, visitors enjoy you-pick strawberries in spring, you-pick blackberries in summer, you-pick pumpkins in fall, and you-cut Christmas trees, fresh wreaths, and a gift shop during the holiday season.<\/p>\n
The 2024 winning wreath comes from Pea Ridge Forest in Hermann. Pea Ridge Forest offers choose and cut Christmas trees in addition to being a wholesale nursery. The farm offers a variety of activities during the holiday season, including a gift shop, hayrides, and complimentary hot chocolate. LeRoy & Mary Rood established Pea Ridge Forest in 1972 and the farm is currently owned by their sons, Mike & Scott. Pea Ridge Forest is truly a family business, with three generations working on the farm.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe agritourism industry is vital to our state\u2019s agriculture economy,\u201d said\u00a0Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. \u201cParticipating in this fun event that showcases a unique segment of the industry is always a highlight for my team and me. Agriculture comes in many shapes and sizes in Missouri, and Christmas tree farmers play a significant role in diversifying our agriculture operations.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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