State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Announces Harvest of 2025 State Capitol Christmas Tree
Invites Montanans to tree lighting ceremony on December 1
SEELEY LAKE, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the harvest of the 2025 State Capitol Christmas tree from a Good Neighbor Authority project on U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Land in Seeley Lake.
“Each year, it’s a privilege to bring a tree from our public lands into the state capitol for all to enjoy,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Through the Good Neighbor Authority, the State of Montana and the Forest Service work together to actively manage our forests and improve their health. This year’s tree is an example of the good work happening to reduce fire risk in Montana.”
Gov. Gianforte and USFS Lolo Forest Supervisor Ben Johnson holding the permit for the 2025 State Capitol Christmas Tree
The 2025 State Capitol Christmas tree was harvested in coordination with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) which partners with the USFS on projects to enhance forest health and reduce wildfire risk.
The tree will be transported to Helena and decorated in the coming days. The governor and first lady invite Montanans to join them for the tree lighting ceremony on Monday, December 1 at 5 p.m. in the Capitol rotunda.
The governor encourages Montanans to participate in the unique tradition of harvesting Christmas trees from public lands to benefit forest health and resiliency as well as improve wildlife habitat. Permits can be acquired through the USFS or through DNRC if cutting trees on state trust lands.
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