Grand Junction residents can now buy fresh Christmas trees from Boy Scouts of America Troop 353 at their annual fundraiser lot. The event kicked off on November 29, 2025, at Meadowlark Garden Center, raising money for summer camps, supplies, and uniforms while teaching young scouts key life skills.

This tradition draws families from across western Colorado each holiday season. Scouts handle most tasks, from unloading trees to helping customers, building teamwork and responsibility in the process.

A Long-Standing Holiday Tradition

Troop 353 has run this Christmas tree lot for years, making it a key part of Grand Junction’s festive season. The fundraiser started right after Thanksgiving, aligning with the rush for holiday decorations.

Local families look forward to picking out trees here. It not only supports the scouts but also brings the community together during the holidays.

In recent years, similar scout fundraisers across the state have seen growing crowds. For example, troops in Reno and Seattle reported strong sales in 2025, showing a trend of people choosing real trees over artificial ones for their fresh scent and tradition.

This year’s lot features a variety of tree types, sourced from regional farms. Prices start at around 50 dollars for smaller trees, going up to 150 dollars for larger ones, based on size and type.

How the Scouts Run the Operation

Scouts take charge of daily tasks at the lot. They unload deliveries, set up displays, and assist shoppers in finding the perfect tree.

Adult leaders oversee safety, but the kids do the heavy lifting. This hands-on approach teaches them about business and customer service.

Here are some key roles the scouts play:

• Unloading and stocking fresh trees from trucks
• Greeting customers and answering questions about tree care
• Securing trees to vehicles for safe transport home
• Promoting the lot through word-of-mouth and social media

Blake Rosling, a senior patrol leader, shared how the work makes trips more rewarding. He noted that earning the funds themselves adds extra fun to adventures in places like Utah or Idaho.

The lot operates without scouts using chainsaws or handling cash, keeping things safe while building confidence.

Operations run smoothly thanks to volunteer parents and community support. This setup ensures the fundraiser succeeds each year.

Benefits for Scouts and Families

The money raised helps cover costs that might otherwise burden families. Summer camps build leadership and outdoor skills, which are core to scouting.

Annette Rosling, the scout master, explained that without this support, many kids could not join. The fundraiser keeps scouting accessible.

Beyond funds, the experience teaches practical lessons. Scouts learn sales skills, teamwork, and responsibility, which help in school and future jobs.

Families benefit too. Buying a tree here supports local youth while getting a quality product. Many return year after year, creating lasting community ties.

In 2025, with rising costs for activities, such fundraisers are more vital than ever. National scouting data shows over 2 million youth involved, with events like this funding about 30 percent of troop needs on average.

Community Impact and Broader Trends

This fundraiser boosts Grand Junction’s economy by drawing shoppers to the area. Meadowlark Garden Center sees extra foot traffic, helping nearby businesses.

It ties into national trends where scout groups sell trees to fund programs. In Colorado alone, dozens of troops hold similar events, raising thousands for youth development.

Environmental aspects matter too. Real trees are biodegradable and often come from sustainable farms, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.

Recent events, like winter storms in other states, have not slowed sales. Troops adapt by covering lots or moving indoors, ensuring fundraisers continue.

Community feedback highlights the joy it brings. Parents praise the scouts’ enthusiasm, and buyers enjoy the fresh pine aroma filling the air.

How to Join In and Support

The lot stays open until trees sell out, likely through mid-December. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays from Wednesday to Friday.

Visitors can find a range of trees, including firs and pines, all fresh cut.

Plan a visit soon, as popular sizes go fast. Cash and cards are accepted, with all proceeds going directly to the troop.

Share your thoughts on this local tradition or your own holiday fundraiser stories in the comments below. Spread the word to friends and family to help support these young scouts.