The calendar says September, but the Missouri Department of Conservation has begun its annual search for a large Christmas tree for use on the Governor's Mansion lawn in Jefferson City.
MDC is asking landowners, homeowners, businesses and communities that have possible candidate trees to contact the department, according to a news release.
To qualify, the donated tree must be about 40 feet tall and an eastern red cedar, Norway spruce or white pine. Candidate trees must be fully branched on all four sides and accessible by large equipment for removal.
MDC asks residents to email photos of candidate trees to [email protected], including a contact telephone number, location of the tree, and several pictures taken from different angles and distances. Candidate tree nominations can also be submitted by mail to Missouri Department of Conservation, Attn: Mansion Christmas Tree, P.O. Box 180, Jefferson City, MO 65102.
All entries must be submitted by Oct. 10.
Full guidelines are available online at mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/governors-mansion-christmas-tree-search. For more information, contact the MDC Forestry Division at 573-751-4115.