Christmas tree farming becomes a family operation

The Christmas trees on stands at local businesses, like the Grand Marais Holiday station and Isaak Hansen Hardware, have been locally grown for more than 30 years. They were carefully tended at a tree farm on Pike Lake Road for many years by Karen Smaby. 

Karen passed away in August 2020, and in addition to the sadness of so many at the loss of a friend, the question was raised--what will happen to the Christmas tree operation?

There is good news. Karen's neighbors, Steve and Kate Surbaugh, and their children, Will, Tristan, and Lexie, have taken on the role of tree farmers. 

Community members interested in making an appointment to select a tree or just to learn more may call Steve Surbaugh at 218-370-9757. 

WTIP's Rhonda Silence spoke with Steve about how this came about and learned more about the process of growing and harvesting Christmas trees as well.