Christmas Trees in Peril: North Carolina Farms Battle Back After Hurricane

Driving through the misty mountains of North Carolina, and suddenly, rows of lush, green Christmas trees come into view. This is the scene in Newland, a town nestled about 90 minutes from Asheville. Here, farmers have dedicated themselves to nurturing the iconic Fraser fir, a favorite American Christmas tree. But disaster struck when the remains of Hurricane Helene swept through in late September, causing chaos just as the holiday season approached. The storm brought heavy rain, sparking mudslides that uprooted both mature trees, nearing the end of a long growth cycle, and newly planted seedlings. Homes, barns, and essential facilities were badly damaged or destroyed, leaving farmers scrambling to salvage their businesses. The key roads that allow for the transportation of trees from the mountains to suppliers were left in disarray, filled with gravel and other debris, making them impassable. As the region grapples with these setbacks, farmers are determined to preserve their traditions and livelihoods. They have been working tirelessly to clean up the damage and prepare for the coming holidays. It's a race against time, but their commitment to keeping Christmas spirit alive remains unshaken.