Alaska’s Tongass National Forest to Provide 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
A special tree from the depths of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest is set to bring holiday cheer to the nation’s capital. This marks a significant honor for Alaska, as noted by Governor Mike Dunleavy: “It’s an honor to have the 2024 U.S. Capitol tree come from Alaska.”
The tradition of the Capitol Christmas tree, also known as “The People’s Tree,” dates back to 1964.
John McCormack, then the speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, initiated the tradition by placing a Christmas tree on the Capitol lawn. Since 1970, the U.S. Forest Service has been responsible for providing the tree, following a request from the Capitol Architect.
Brandon Raile, a public affairs officer for the Forest Service, explained, “The Forest Service rotates the responsibility, or really the privilege, of harvesting the Capitol Christmas tree amongst all of its regions.”
This year’s tree hails from the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the country.
Alaska last contributed a Capitol Christmas tree in 2015, when a nearly 23-meter-tall Lutz spruce was selected from the Chugach National Forest.
Silviculturist Tom Roland described the intricate selection process, where a team looks for a full, conically shaped tree standing 18 to 24 meters tall. “The Capitol Architect ultimately makes the final decision,” Roland said.
Once selected, the tree will embark on a long journey from Alaska to Washington, D.C. Ensuring the tree’s health during transit is challenging. “Keeping a tree healthy during a journey like this is really hard,” Roland noted.
The tree will travel on an expandable trailer, two different barges, and a truck, all while being maintained at a stable temperature and kept moist through a hydration system.
The tree will also be part of a “whistle stop” tour, making brief stops in various communities across the country, allowing the public to view it.
Once it reaches the Capitol, the tree will be decorated with thousands of handmade ornaments created by Alaskans, symbolizing the state’s contribution to this national tradition.
The final selection of this year’s tree will be confirmed by July 19, with the harvesting scheduled for October. The specific tree species will be announced at a later date, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding this festive event.
