Augusta – The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) announced today that Governor Janet Mills has proclaimed Friday, November 28, 2025, as Maine Grown Christmas Tree Day to honor the valuable contributions of Maine's Christmas tree and wreath industry. 

Maine’s Christmas tree sector, which produces and sells fresh trees and wreaths, generates an estimated $19 million in direct economic impact each year and supports over 800 workers across the state. This annual proclamation celebrates the work of the 115 family farms that make up the Maine Christmas Tree Association (MCTA), a cornerstone of holiday traditions in Maine since 1962. 

“I encourage Maine people to celebrate the season by supporting Maine’s hardworking family farmers and bringing the beauty of a Maine-grown Christmas tree or wreath to your home,” said Governor Mills. “Maine’s Christmas tree growers and wreath makers bring joy to people across our state and far beyond, and I thank them for their dedication to spreading holiday cheer.” 

“As we celebrate the holiday season, Maine-grown Christmas trees and wreaths highlight the connection between our farms and our communities,” said DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal. “These growers sustain a valued tradition, support local economies, and help ensure that Maine’s agricultural heritage remains strong for future generations.” 

“Governor Mills’ proclamation reflects the hard work and dedication of generations of Maine Christmas tree growers and crafts people,” said Matt Quinn, President of the MCTA. “Maine's Christmas tree industry supports a way of life for hundreds of families and offers an opportunity for them to create special memories for people throughout the country. Maine Christmas Tree Association appreciates the recognition of this important part of the state's economy.” 

Maine residents and visitors can find local farms, wreath makers, retail locations, and wholesale distributors at mainechristmastree.com. When purchasing from a retail location, consumers are encouraged to ask if the tree is Maine-grown to directly support local farmers. 

In keeping with tradition, Governor Mills will welcome award-winning Christmas trees and wreaths from the 2025 Fryeburg Fair to the Blaine House on Monday, December 1, 2025. The People’s Choice Christmas Tree, selected by fairgoers, will be displayed at the Governor’s residence as a symbol of the season and of Maine’s agricultural excellence. 

This webinar series, presented live in January 2025, is now available online for viewing at your convenience.  Winter weather is becoming increasingly variable. Where frozen conditions have been relied upon to protect fragile ground from the impacts of timber harvests in the Northeast, changing winter weather alters the status quo, requiring new approaches to timber harvesting under winter conditions.   

This three-part series, presented by the USDA Forest Service, examines the changing winter conditions and their effects on timber harvesting in the Northeast. Scientists and natural resource professionals explore the research behind changing winters, soil monitoring to inform operations, and adaptations to support winter timber harvests in a changing environment.   

This webinar series is presented in collaboration with the USDA Forest Service Eastern Region State, Private, and Tribal Forestry, the Northern Institute for Applied Climate Science (NIACS), and the Northeast and Northern Forest Climate Hubs.