Overview
- Architect of the Capitol executive Jim Kaufmann selected the Nevada-grown red fir from nine candidates in the Carson Ranger District to represent the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.
- The tree was unveiled and prepared at the Nevada Air National Guard base in Reno, which handled transport and decoration ahead of community events.
- The planned itinerary features the Nevada Day Parade in Carson City and stops across Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and a scheduled arrival at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, on Nov. 20.
- Destined for the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol during the holiday season, the species (Abies magnifica) is described by the Forest Service as having blue-green needles that point upward and strong, ornament-ready branches.
- Some coverage refers to the tree as “Silver Belle,” a name used in reporting tied to the tour’s “Spirit of the Silver State” theme.