Ageing Christmas tree farmers threaten Christmas?

January 4, 2012 | By Kim Walker

The typical Oklahoma Christmas tree farmer is 71 still spry and more than able to keep up with the seasonal workers. But they are an aging bunch, and there are fewer young operators starting tree farms or taking over existing businesses.

There are about two dozen Christmas tree farms in Oklahoma. That’s less than half the number a decade ago, according to the Oklahoma Christmas Tree Association. President of the association says; “When you get to be above 70 or 75 years of age, this is pretty brutal on you.”

He’s not sure who will take over his operation when he eventually retires. He might sell his land for housing development.