Christmas Tree Farms Face Weather and Economic Challenges This Season

A local Christmas tree farmer at Hellaby Hill Farms in Chili, New York, discussed the impact of dry weather on tree growth as the holiday season begins. Despite last year's low snowfall affecting the water table, the farm's tree growth was not significantly hindered, though prolonged dry conditions could lead to higher prices for smaller trees. The farm, which sells about 200 trees annually, remains open for the four weeks leading up to Christmas, maintaining a tradition cherished by families like Tyler Duris's.