A Christmas tree farm in Cape Breton is marking a decade in business this winter, but the young proprietors are already contemplating their retirement plans. David and Jenna Lee Green Mombourquette established Green Hills Farm in Albert Bridge, N.S., following the acquisition of Travis’ Tree Farm in 2015. Several years later, they expanded their operations by purchasing a neighboring tree farm. While the business has evolved to suit their families’ needs over time, they have always been mindful of the future.
David expressed, “At some point, I will likely plant trees that I won’t harvest, but I anticipate this thought will become more prevalent as time goes on.” Succession planning has been a prevalent issue in the sector, 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 aspiring individuals entering the industry, the Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia developed a kit that offers resources, contacts, and reading materials. Chrissy Trenholm from the Northeastern Christmas Tree Association mentioned, “We have been providing this support for several years, and it is gaining momentum within the industry. Growers collaborate effectively, exchanging fresh ideas each year, and it seems to be yielding positive results.”
The kit has been utilized by around 100 individuals, according to Trenholm, and is expected to revitalize an industry that has faced challenges in recent times. Both David and Jenna Lee have engaged in discussions with family, friends, and customers about the farm’s long-term future. They are hopeful that decisions regarding the farm’s continuity can be reached soon.
Jenna Lee shared, “We are contemplating the number of trees to plant and the additional land we wish to acquire, ensuring that we can oversee the farm’s operations into our retirement.”
