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ASHEVILLE, N.C.
North Carolina Rep. Heath Shuler and forestry observers are warning that climate change could alter the state's Christmas trees.
Shuler and others plan to hold a press conference Thursday to discuss the impact of climate change.
North Carolina's large growth of Fraser firs make the state a leader in Christmas tree production. This year, one of the state's Fraser firs is featured in the White House. But the trees rely on the cool temperatures in the southern Appalachians. Officials say global warming could make it difficult for Fraser firs to continue growing in the state.
The Christmas tree industry accounts for over $100 million annually in western North Carolina.
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