December 8, 2023
Cultivating Sustainable Traditions in Nova Scotia at Mahoney’s Evergreens
As the holiday season approaches, many families are eager to embark on the cherished tradition of selecting the perfect Christmas tree. At Mahoney’s Evergreens in Nova Scotia, this tradition is not only festive but also deeply rooted in being sustainable. We are proud to offer sustainably harvested, fresh cut Balsam fir Christmas trees at all seven of our locations. Join us as we explore the story behind Mahoney’s Evergreens and understand why our Christmas tree forests honor our commitment to eco-friendly practices.
The Roots of Mahoney’s Evergreens:
Located in the heart of Lunenburg County, the Balsam Fir Christmas Tree Capital of the World, Mahoney’s Evergreens has been cultivating Christmas trees for generations. What sets Mahoney’s apart is our unwavering dedication to sustainable forestry practices. The story begins with our family’s deep connection to the land, understanding the delicate balance between providing holiday joy and preserving the environment.
Sustainable Farming Practices:
Mahoney’s Evergreens embraces sustainable farming practices to ensure the longevity of our Christmas tree forests. Instead of clear-cutting of rows and rows of trees, we employ selective harvesting methods. This approach allows the remaining trees to thrive, preserving the natural habitat for local wildlife and promoting overall forest health.
Visitors often feel surprised when they see that our plantation grows freely instead of in neat, farmed rows. We cultivate our trees within a wild forest ecosystem, where they naturally reseed and grow on their own. The terrain is full of swamps, hills, and thick forests with pockets of prime tree growing space. Throughout the plantation, we leave 12- to 30-foot-tall “mother” or “seed trees” standing so they can produce seed cones. Wind carries pollen across the plantation to fertilize the cones naturally. Even though we harvest about 12,000 trees each year, we cut only what we need—and the land renews itself as thousands of new seedlings sprout on their own. At any given time we have over 1 million trees and seedlings actively growing.
Carbon Sequestration:
One of the significant environmental benefits of Mahoney’s Christmas tree farms is our contribution to carbon sequestration. Christmas trees absorb carbon dioxide during their growth, mitigating the impact of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. By choosing a Mahoney’s Evergreens tree, customers play a role in supporting a carbon-neutral holiday tradition.
Looking Ahead:
Peter Mahoney and his children Shannon and Brett some of our key Mahoney’s Evergreens team members: Brian, Natalya and Jamie
As Mahoney’s Evergreens continues to grow and evolve, our commitment to sustainability remains unwavering. The legacy of responsible Christmas tree farming is passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that future holiday seasons are marked by joy, tradition, and a deep respect for the environment.
Mahoney’s Evergreens stands as a beacon of sustainable Christmas tree farming, demonstrating that holiday traditions can coexist harmoniously with environmental responsibility. By choosing a tree from Mahoney’s, families not only bring warmth and joy into their homes but also contribute to the preservation of our planet for generations to come.
Need help making the choice between our Novia Scotian grown Balsam Firs versus Fraser Firs? Check out our video here! And check out our blog for guidance on caring for your Christmas tree once it’s home.