Each year on a preserve outside Healdsburg, a simple tradition — finding the perfect tree — takes on a greater purpose: protecting the forest from wildfires. Since 2017, nonprofit LandPaths has invited the public to Riddell Preserve for its annual “Great Charlie Brown Christmas Tree Hunt.” It’s a fun, eco-friendly event where visitors help thin the forest by cutting down a free holiday tree.
The scenic preserve has 400 acres of peaceful oak woodlands, majestic redwoods and rolling grasslands overlooking breathtaking Dry Creek Valley. Removing scraggly trees and invasive species reduces wildfire risk in overgrown areas made vulnerable by decades of fire suppression.
The day starts with a morning caravan up to the preserve, where drizzle often descends and dew is still visible on the forest floor. Pauline Hsu, who brought her two young children to last year’s hunt to cut down a live tree for the first time, says her family loved learning about the different species in the forest, including a massive lion’s mane mushroom they spotted.
After the hunt, the LandPaths stewardship team delivers dozens of trees to the Bayer Farm and Jeff’s Garden to be distributed for free to community members. Leilani Clark, LandPaths communication director, says the day fits right in with the group’s mission to get more families outdoors. “It feels really good, and it connects people with the land,” she says.
If you missed the annual Charlie Brown Tree Hunt on Dec. 7, LandPaths will host a Charlie Brown tree give-away from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Dec. 14, at Bayer Farm in Santa Rosa. The event is first come, first served, and includes warm beverages as well as holiday crafting opportunities.
The nonprofit will also host a Winter Celebration from 3-6 p.m., Dec. 21, at Bayer Farm in Santa Rosa. Bring your favorite cultural dish to the celebration to win a prize. The event will include holiday music and a wreath-making station (materials and instruction provided).