It may only be May, but the search has begun for Michigan’s Capitol Christmas tree.

Each year, the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget is tasked with the search and harvest of the state tree and once again asks for the public’s assistance in spotting the perfect conifer.

“This is a great opportunity for Michiganders to ‘look about’ them as they explore our pleasant peninsulas this summer,” said Acting DTMB Director Michelle Lange. “Our DTMB team works hard each year to select the tree that will best represent Michigan at the state Capitol during the holiday season.”

Last year’s 63-foot spruce was donated by Carla Fletcher and her family from Marenisco in the western Upper Peninsula. It was the 24th state tree to hail from the U.P. out of 35 years.

Four trees have been harvested in Dickinson County, including a 61-foot blue spruce donated in 2019 by Jordan and Sarah Wolfenberg of Iron Mountain. Two past trees have come from Kingsford, and one from Sagola Township.

To be considered, trees need to meet the following criteria:

— Type: Spruce or fir.

— Size: At least 60-feet tall with a maximum crown of 24 feet and maximum trunk diameter of 30 inches.

— Access: Easy access to the road, with no interference from wires.

— Cost: Available at no cost.

DTMB works with the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association to bring the tree to Lansing. Trees have come from locations across the state — from backyards to public land near highways and forests.

Denny Olson of Breitung Township, a member of the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the GLPTA, has been involved with about 20 of the trees chosen for the state Capitol.

Traditionally, the tree reigns over downtown Lansing’s holiday festivities, mounted on the east lawn of the Capitol building.

The deadline for tree nominations is Aug. 15. Individuals who wish to nominate a tree are asked to email their name, telephone number, a photograph of the tree, and information about its size and location to ChristmasTree@michigan.gov or by mail to:

Christmas Tree Search

Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget

Building Operations Division

P.O. Box 30026

Lansing, MI 48909