San Carlos Apache Tribe Gifts State with Christmas Tree

Globe, AZ (11/25/2024) – A 40-foot Ponderosa pine takes center stage this year as the State’s Capitol Christmas tree. The tree, a gift from San Carlos Apache Tribal Chairman Terry Rambler to Governor Katie Hobbs, comes from the Point of Pines-area, northeast of Globe. The tree emphasizes the spirit of giving and the tribe’s rich cultural heritage in Arizona.

“Central to the way of life for Apaches is striving for a state of Gozhǫǫ, or a harmony with the natural world,” said Terry Rambler, Chairman of the San Carlos Apache Tribe. “Our Tribe’s Reservation includes the beautiful ponderosa pine forest which serves as a spiritual and cultural reprieve. It is an honor to gift Governor Hobbs a special Ponderosa pine—or yellow pine—for her office. We know this tree will be used to spread holiday warmth and cheer and it is our hope that it will further serve as a reminder of the natural beauty that exists within our great state and the deep roots the San Carlos Apache have in this region.”

“The Capitol Christmas tree from the San Carlos Apache Tribe is a beautiful gift to Arizona,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “We are honored to receive a tree from a Tribal nation for the second year in a row. As we deepen relationships with Tribal communities, this tree celebrates the vibrant cultures that make Arizona so special.”    

After a careful and thoughtful selection process, the San Carlos Apache Tribe and Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) harvested the Capitol Christmas tree on Friday, November 22. The tree was harvested at 40 feet tall, but cut to 20 feet to accommodate its presentation within the Capitol Rotunda.

Ponderosa pines are typically found in the western United States and recognizable by their long, thick needles that grow in bundles of two and three. The Ponderosa pine is an evergreen conifer and thrives in diverse climates. In Arizona, Ponderosa pines live at elevations typically above 5,000 feet along the Mogollon Rim and other higher elevations. The San Carlos Apache Tribal Reservation is noted for one of the largest contiguous stands of Ponderosa pine in the world.

DFFM delivered this year’s Christmas tree to the Capitol on Friday where it has been decorated and displayed for public viewing. A tree lighting ceremony will take place on December 2, 2024.

For more information, contact Tiffany Davila at 602-540-1036 or by email at [email protected]             

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