The preparations for another festive holiday season are under way. For many people, selecting just the right Christmas tree is a fun-filled part the process. While boosting Iowa agriculture may not be on the minds of many folks when the tree search commences, perhaps it should be at least one of the considerations.

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey is urging Hawkeye State residents to help support the state’s rural economy by choosing an Iowa-grown Christmas tree.

“As families begin the process of decorating their home for the Christmas season, I encourage Iowans to consider choosing a tree grown right here in the state to make the centerpiece of their celebration,” Northey said in a statement released just before Thanksgiving. “Selecting a fresh Christmas tree can be part of a great family tradition and is an opportunity to support the local economy.”

According to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa’s tree farms devote more than 1,500 acres to Christmas tree production. They harvest nearly 40,000 trees each year. While this is a relatively small part of the agricultural picture in Iowa, the industry does contribute $1 million each year to Iowa’s economy.

Northey is calling attention to a directory of more than 100 Iowa tree farms available on the Iowa Christmas Tree Grower’s website – www.IowaChristmasTrees.com. Pay a visit to that site to learn more about the industry and purchase options.

Farm News joins Northey in urging area residents to support Iowa’s economy by buying an Iowa-grown tree this year. Doing so will help brighten the holidays for fellow Iowans.