About the Farm
Tannenbaum Farms is owned and manged by Dr. Mel and Laurie Koelling. A nationally recognized expert in the industry, Dr. Koelling taught and served in the Department of Forestry at Michigan State University for over 35 years.
The farm was purchased in 1977 as an extension of Dr. Koelling's professional interests and as a way to establish a college fund for his children. The first planting in 1978 covered three acres; today, plantings cover approximately 100 acres of the 180-acre farm.
TIMELINE
1978
Tannenbaum Farms begins with an initial planting of 3000 trees covering three acres.
1979
First tree planter purchased.
1985
First tree baler purchased.
1986
Wagon rides begin.
1987
Annual plantings approach 6000 trees. The majority of annual plantings now consist of the Fraser Fir.
1988
Irrigation purchased after a summer of severe drought.
1989
Pond dug for irrigation water source. Sales and storage barn expanded.
1990
Tree carts offered.
1990-2000
Annual plantings gradually increase to present numbers of approximately 7,000 per year. Fraser Fir is the dominant species.
1998
The Christmas Shop opens.
2002
Completion of second pond.
2003
Completion of present concession stand.
2004
Group hay rides and pumpkin sales are added to the services available. Tree spade purchased.
2007
Additional equipment storage barn built.
2009
Expanded parking facilities.
2010
Individual tree tagging system established.
2011
Expanded Gift Shop offerings.
2012
Santa arrived at Tannenbaum Farm.
