Almena, Wis. (WEAU) – Thanks to a donation from a local vendor, Chris Pederson can now manage 47 acres of Christmas trees with some more horse power.
Chris Pederson owns and operates Snowshoe Valley Christmas Tree Farm, with the help of his family. After purchasing the land in 2022, Pederson has only been able to maintain the land with generic equipment.
Now, he has a new tractor to help with many chores for the farm.
Chris Pederson said, “We’ll use the rotary cutter to cut tall weeds down in the fields, in between the trees. mow our parking lot…the sump grinder I’m gonna try to grind the sumps out cause right now it’s just a chainsaw and a back break.”
Pederson served in the U.S. National Guard for 20 years, serving in Wisconsin, Virginia, Iraq and Kuwait.
His veteran status helped him qualify for Kubota’s ‘Geared to Gift’ program, out of 500 applicants.
Kyle Monson, sales associate for Johnson Tractor said, “Kubota every year, they like to give back to all the veterans itself if they can. We have five divisions so every year they give out five tractors to veterans itself to show them their support, and it’s kind of a thank you for what they do for everyone.”
Pederson said, “it’s great to be recognized for your service…you don’t ask for it, but if it’s out there it’s great that other people appreciate the service and the sacrifice.”
Monson says the tractor will help their work around the farm.
“this will help them with managing their trees itself, from cutting between the rows itself, cutting down their fields, after trees are cut out it will take the stumps out itself,” Monson said.
Both Pederson and Monson shared their appreciation for one another, and Pederson is ready to get to work.
“I’m just waiting for the rain to stop, and get on it.” Pederson said.
Monson added, “I love doing this, and to me, putting a smile on someone’s face itself is the biggest thing you could ever do.
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