A Christmas tree farm located in Cape Breton is marking a decade of operations this winter, with the young owners already contemplating their retirement plans. David and Jenna Lee Green Mombourquette established Green Hills Farm in Albert Bridge, N.S., in 2015 by acquiring Travis’ Tree Farm. They later expanded by purchasing a neighboring tree farm. The business has evolved over time to suit their family’s needs, but they are now focusing on the future.
David expressed, “At some point, I will be planting trees that I may not harvest. However, as the years go by, this thought will likely weigh more heavily on my mind.” Succession planning has been a longstanding concern in the industry, with approximately 1,000 Christmas tree farms closing without a succession plan between 2011 and 2021, as per the Canadian Christmas Trees Association.
In an effort to better equip individuals interested in entering the industry, the Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia developed a resource kit providing contacts, reading materials, and guidance. Chrissy Trenholm from the Northeastern Christmas Tree Association mentioned, “We have been offering this support for several years now, and it has gained traction within the industry. Growers collaborate effectively to exchange new ideas annually, indicating positive progress.”
The kit, utilized by around 100 individuals as stated by Trenholm, aims to rejuvenate an industry that has faced challenges in recent times. Both David and Jenna Lee have engaged in conversations with family, friends, and customers regarding the farm’s long-term future. They are optimistic about reaching a decision soon. Jenna Lee mentioned, “We are contemplating the number of trees to plant and the additional area to acquire, ensuring a smooth transition into retirement.”
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The Christmas tree industry in Nova Scotia is a significant sector as depicted in the image.