This is actually the fifth time that Vermont has provided a tree to Washington, DC. Our state is continuing the tradition we began in 1967, 1980, 1982, 1994 and now 2007. Our tree is a balsam fir coming from the Green Mountain National Forest. What makes this especially exciting is that the Green Mountain National Forest is celebrating their 75th anniversary in 2007.

Approximately 4,500 ornaments will be provided for the Capitol Tree. In addition another 3,000 ornaments will travel down with our 70 Companion Trees. While we are cutting these trees from the National Forest and from the Vermont, New Hampshire Tree Growers Association, we are purchasing and distributing hundreds of balsam tree seedlings through our local events. These seedlings will be planted to supply trees for the future. 
History of the Capitol Tree
John McCormack, Speaker of the House until 1971, began the tradition of the Capitol Christmas Tree in 1964. The first was a live Douglas fir planted on the west front law of the U.S. Capitol.
After the 1968 tree lighting ceremony, the tree died and was removed. In 1969, the tradition continued using a tree assembled from portions of three eastern white pines. This proved unsatisfactory and resulted in the Capitol Architect approaching the Forest Service for assistance. 
Since 1970, the "People's Tree" has come from one of the nation's National Forests. The Capitol Christmas Tree is not to be confused with the National Christmas Tree, which is planned near the White House and is lit by the President and the First Lady
In addition to the 60 foot balsam fir which will serve as the 2007 National Capitol Christmas Tree and will grace the West Lawn of the Capitol, 80 smaller companion trees will be provided as part of the celebration. These trees will be delivered to our Congressional Offices, Supreme Court, and various other U.S. Government Offices in Washington, DC.
For the first time, Veterans Hospitals will be added to the recipient list. These include 2 hospitals in Vermont, one in Massachusetts, one in Connecticut, one in Pennsylvania, and Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington. Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia will also be provided with a tree.
The great majority of these trees will be generously donated by the Vermont contingent of the New Hampshire-Vermont Christmas Tree Association. A complete list of donating growers will be added this summer.
The trees will be collected from throughout Vermont by the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation. Delivery of all the trees to Washington, DC will be donated by the "Green Mountain Bull Dawgs" Chapter of the Antique Truck Club of America.
These trees will be decorated with 3,000 handcrafted ornaments donated by individuals, organizations and artisans.