What You Should Expect When You Arrive At The Farm
(Article from MCTGA and adapted for MCTGA by Norm Lavack)

• Most tree farms keep their fields very well groomed, but there are some things that are beyond the farmer's control.  Be careful of tree stumps, gopher or mole mounds, uneven ground and sharp saws.
• Go to the farm prepared for a day in the country.  Dress for warm weather:  warm clothes (preferably in layers), warm boots, warm mitts and hat.  The "cutter downers" and the "load uppers" should also have gloves.
• DON'T FORGET THE CAMERA!
• It is best NOT to bring the dog.  Very few farms accept dogs for safety and sanitary reasons. 
• The farm operator usually provides the saws.
• Some farms measure and price their trees individually, others sell them by the foot.
• Head into the field and select the tree that fits your predetermined needs.  Check the trunk to be sure that it is significantly straight.  Keep in mind that pines will usually have, at least, some crook in their trunks.
• In the fall ALL pines drop, or shed, a certain portion of their oldest needles.  This is a normal part of the life cycle of the tree.  The phenomenon occurs because the tree is preparing itself for winter.  Most farms provide shaking services so that you will depart with a perfectly clean pine.
• Cutting the tree is easiest as a two-person project.  The "cutter downer" usually lies on the ground.  While the helper holds the bottom limbs up.  While the cut is being made, the helper should tug on the tree lightly to ensure the saw remains open so that the saw does not bind.  The tugging force should be applied to the side of the tree opposite the cut.
• Bring the tree to the processing area where it will be cleaned and netted.  Netting makes transportation and handling the tree substantially easier.
• When you are checking out, remember to pick-up a tree removal bag.  It can be used as a tree skirt and then pulled up around the tree to help keep the floors clean when the tree is taken down.
• Now you are ready to load the tree and head home to decorate your Real Manitoba Grown Christmas Tree!