Old-fashioned Christmas Event

If you’re looking for that old-fashioned, family friendly experience of getting outside and cutting your own tree for the holidays, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County invite you to Pioneer Tree Farm, located at 4614 Pioneer Road, McHenry.  The trees are raised organically, with no chemicals used for controlling weeds or tree pests.  The motivation of the owners, Bill and Alice Chuck Howenstine, is their love of nature – trees, wildlife, weather, and the land.

The farm will be open the next two weekends from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 7 - 8, and December 14 – 15.  A variety of sizes of pines, spruces, firs, and junipers will be available for $45 each. Ten percent of each tree sale is donated to the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, and most of the workers are volunteers from the Defenders.

“Everything is much like old times. As you walk around to look for your tree, we hope you will enjoy the country air and the diversity of vegetation on our tree farm, perhaps see some wildlife, and have fun with other friendly people!” say Alice and Bill.

Wagon rides to and from the pines, tree shaking, and baling are included at no extra charge. Hot coffee and cocoa (both Fair Trade) are available in the Warming House. Hand saws are also provided, or bring your own (no chain saws or axes, please).   For more information, visit the farm’s website at www.pioneertreefarm.com.

The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and improvement of the environment. The group provides community residents with educational programs and volunteer action on pollution prevention, sustainable land use and energy and natural resource conservation. Donations are encouraged and are tax-deductible as charitable contributions.  For more information about EDMC, visit www.mcdef.org or call 815-338-0393.