Despite Fewer Christmas Trees Cut in Oregon Last Year, Sales Increased

According to NASS, Oregon Christmas tree growers cut fewer trees last year, but made more money. In 2020, 3.44 million trees were cut and sold, down 27% from the last time the survey was conducted, in 2015. However, gross sales in 2020 totaled $107 million, up 26% from 2015.

The average price per tree last year was $31.06.

When it comes to acreage, 31,124 acres were devoted to Christmas trees last year, down 24% from 2015, with seven counties making up most of the acres. The two largest counties growing trees were Clackamas County with 9,472 acres growing trees and Marion County with 7,198 acres. When it comes to the trees sold last year:

• 49% were Nobel fir (the industry leader)
• 41% were Douglas fir
• 10% were Grand fir, Nordmann/Turkish fir and other species.

Noble fir was also the leader in highest average price, selling for $38.68 per tree.

In 2020, 6.15 million trees were planted. Producers intend to plant 5.83 million trees in 2021.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com