A.C. Reynolds Middle School celebrated Christmas in June. Sixth graders in Rebecca Whittier’s science class learned about the process of selecting the National Christmas tree for White House People’s Tree in Washington D.C., from two National Park employees. They say now is the time that the trees get selected.
“We are in the process right now of selecting the Capitol Christmas tree, which is coming from Western North Carolina,” said National Park Service Heather Luczak, Environmental Coordinator. “The tree will either come from the Nantahala Forest or the Pisgah National Forest since those have some high elevations. An architect from the Capitol will come down to make the final decision.”
Ms. Luczak’s role in the selection process is extremely important for the ecology and wildlife conservation around the tree.
“Most of what I do is making sure that we protect the resources around the tree,” she explained. “As we narrow down some trees I will work with the Fish and Wildlife services since there are some endangered species to look out for.”
This in depth process also looks into the genetics of the trees, to ensure the perfect one is chosen to go on display.
“We are looking at how to find trees that the consumers or the growers like,” said Andy Whittier, Research Forester with a Christmas Tree Genetics program at NC State University. “We are trying to breed better trees.”
The students decorated ornaments that will be placed on the tree. Those ornaments are made from natural materials so they will not harm the environment.
“I thought this would be a great opportunity for the kids to put their fingerprint on the White House,” Mrs. Whittier said. “Not only did they learn about the National Tree, but they also asked questions and learned about the Forest Service.”
In November the public will have a chance to see the Capitol tree before it heads up the road. The tree will make several stops in communities as it makes its way to Washington D.C.
