Cut Your Own Christmas Tree at D Ranch Preserve

For the first time, Conservation Florida is inviting you to harvest sand pine trees, a lush and native Florida species, at D Ranch Preserve!

You’ll not only bring the essence of wild Florida into your home — you’ll also help maintain the habitat and support our land management practices at D Ranch Preserve!

Come out and get your unique tree while supporting conservation!

Why cutting down a sand pine can actually be good for the ecosystem?By harvesting your Charlie Brown Christmas tree, you’re helping us:

• Reduce wildfire danger
• Improve wildlife habitat
• Share the love of our native species

Because for decades fire didn't move naturally through the preserve like it once did, sand pines can grow unchecked — crowding out native plants and altering the balance of this special habitat. By harvesting a tree with us on Dec. 6th, you’re playing a direct role in stewarding the land and keeping the ecosystem healthy.

**Please note: Our team will carefully guide which trees are harvested — and how many — to ensure we protect the preserve and all who call it home. 💚

Time: 9 AM - 12 PM

***Participants will receive 30-minute designated time slots ahead of time for this event.

When registering, please plan to be available for the entire duration, even though your tree harvesting will occur within a 30-minute window.We will communicate your harvest time to you in advance! We encourage you to explore the preserve before or after collecting your tree!

Registering:

We recommend a minimum donation of $25 to secure your spot, though any amount is appreciated. All contributions support our efforts in land protection and stewardship of D Ranch Preserve.

We ask that you register once per tree-cutting, but feel free to bring guests and family members. We will provide shuttle service to the tree site, or you are welcome to hike there.

Selecting Your Tree:

You will be shuttled to our tree-cutting area where you can select your tree. Tree height is limited to 20 feet, and stump height to 6 inches. We require that you take the whole tree; do not remove the top-cut down the entire tree. We will be hauling the trees back to the entrance in 30-minute intervals.

Cutting Your Tree:

You’ll need to bring your own tools to cut your tree, a hand saw (no chainsaws), gloves to protect your hands, a tarp, canvas fabric, or something else for your tree to lay on in the car. If you are securing it to the top of your vehicle, that tarp will be used to cover your tree and protect it from wind damage. Bring ropes or straps, too.

Arrival:

Please check in at the tent near the entrance upon arrival. You will receive further instructions and information about the logistics of tree retrieval.

Be Prepared:

• Prepare your vehicle to get dirty.
• Be ready to get messy! Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes.
• Inspect the tree for critters. Before bringing the tree into your home, shake it well to remove any insects or insect eggs.

Can't make this event? Our friends at Lyonia Environmental Center are hosting another opportunity to cut your own tree on December 13th! Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/VolusiaLEC

If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event, please contact at least 3 days prior to this event.

For any questions, please contact a3Jpc3RpbiB8IGNvbnNlcnZhdGlvbmZsYSAhIG9yZw==. Thank you for your support!

Also check out other Nonprofit events in Osteen.