Hunt for '11 State Christmas tree now underway

The State of Michigan is now taking nominations for the 2011 Christmas tree that will ultimately find a home on the front lawn of the Capitol this November. The Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) announced today that its search for a 65-foot spruce or fir has begun. DTMB partners with the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association to bring the tree to Lansing. In past years, trees have been found in various locations across the state, including the far reaches of the Upper Peninsula. ''If anyone has a tree that matches our specifications and they are interested in donating, we will come to their door,'' said Tina Richardson, Director of DTMB's Facilities and Business Services Administration. ''We have a great partnership with the associations to cut and deliver the tree, so there is no expense for the cutting or delivery. We hope to see nominations from all across our great state.'' The state requires the following in order for the tree to be considered: -Must be a spruce or a fir -Height must be a minimum of 65 feet, with a maximum crown of 30 feet and a maximum trunk diameter of 30 inches -Easy access from a road with no interference from wires -Available at no cost After delivery of the tree, a DTMB crew then works with Hi-Ball Company of Lansing, who volunteers a crane and crew to set the tree. It all culminates with the lighting of the tree on November 18, 2011, as part of the 27th Annual Silver Bells in the City celebration. Nominations are requested by July 15, 2011. Individuals wishing to nominate a tree are asked to send their name, telephone number, a photograph of the tree and information about its size and location to ChristmasTree@ michigan.gov, or by mail to: Holiday Tree Search Michigan Dept. of Technology, Management & Budget Facilities Administration, Building Operations Division P.O. Box 30026 Lansing, MI 48909 Copyright © 2011 State of Michigan Published: Thu, Jun 2, 2011