Governor Kehoe Declares December as Christmas Tree Month in Missouri…

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) - Today, Governor Mike Kehoe hosted a ceremony proclaiming December as Christmas Tree Month in Missouri. The proclamation was presented to winners of the Missouri Christmas Tree Association's annual wreath and tree contests, held earlier this year at the association's annual convention.

"Families across our state proudly display Missouri-grown Christmas trees in their homes each year during the holiday season," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "Today, we recognized Starr Pines Christmas Tree Farm and Route 24 Christmas Tree Farm for their contributions to our state's agritourism industry. Claudia and I wish all Missourians a Merry Christmas and encourage them to support a local Christmas tree farm this season."

Starr Pines Christmas Tree Farm in Boonville, Mo., won the tree contest and provided a 10-foot tree to the Missouri Capitol. Located outside Governor Kehoe's office, the Scotch Pine tree was planted in 2017. Starr Pines Christmas Tree Farm began in 1986 when Wayne and Ann Harmon planted their first Scotch Pine. Now the Harmon daughters, along with their families, keep the tradition alive. Families enjoy going to the farm in Cooper County and cutting fresh pine and fir Christmas trees for their celebrations.

Route 24 Christmas Tree Farm in Wellington, Mo. won the wreath contest and delivered a wreath to hang outside the Governor's office. The wreath is crafted from fresh, fragrant red cedar that embodies timeless holiday tradition. Route 24 Christmas Tree Farm, started in 2000, is dedicated to offering a warm, authentic holiday atmosphere where guests can slow down, explore the farm, and create cherished seasonal memories.

"Missouri's Christmas tree farms provide quality, live Christmas decorations which are a staple in homes throughout Missouri during this season," said Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. "These tree farms are a perfect example of our agritourism industry, which is vital to our state's agriculture economy."

To plan a visit to a Christmas tree farm in your area, visit Missouri Grown or the Missouri Christmas Tree Producers Association.

To learn more about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, please visit its website.

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