Rooted in tradition: Scouts sell trees to fund big adventures

On a brisk Saturday morning, the crackle of a wood fire mingled with the scent of pine at Scouts BSA Troop 695 of Eden Prairie’s Christmas tree lot on Pioneer Trail.

Scouts bustled among rows of Fraser, Balsam, and Scotch pine trees, helping customers choose holiday centerpieces while raising funds for Scouting activities.

“The point of the tree lot is to raise money for campouts and to provide people with a nice variety of trees so they can have a good holiday,” said 12-year-old Madeline Bidney, the troop historian.

Located at 13195 Pioneer Trail next to Speedway, the lot has been a community staple for over 25 years. Troop 695 expanded operations last year with a second tree lot at the nearby Cummins-Phipps-Grill House. Previously run by the Eden Prairie Optimist Club, the Cummins site closed this past weekend after selling out its inventory.

Trees and wreaths in high demand

By Wednesday afternoon, the lot had sold most of its 480 trees, according to Kyle Gudmundson, the tree lot co-chair. Inventory included 260 Fraser firs, 155 Balsams, 25 Scotch pines, and 15 Douglas firs. Remaining stock was slim: three Scotch pines, four Balsams, and about 20 Fraser firs. Wreaths were still available.

The lot will remain open until the remaining inventory is sold, which Gudmundson anticipated could happen by the weekend. Hours are 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on weeknights and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. A self-service option is available after hours, allowing customers to choose trees and pay via Venmo or check.

Teaching skills beyond Scouting

Beyond raising money, the tree lot provides Scouts with practical experience, Gudmundson said.

“It’s a great way for the kids to gain work experience, develop leadership skills, and learn salesmanship,” he explained. Scouts handle tasks ranging from describing tree varieties to assisting customers with payment and tree loading.

The lot also connects Scouts with the broader community. 

“It’s amazing how many people come by, not just to buy a tree, but to have scouting conversations with the Scouts,” he said. “They share stories about earning their Eagle rank 30 years ago, attending the same Scout camp, or taking trips to places like Philmont (Scout Ranch in New Mexico). It’s a scouting experience that spans decades – a shared legacy that continues through the tree lot. It’s as much about that connection as it is about the trees themselves.”

Funding big adventures

Proceeds from the tree lot support Scouts’ participation in high-adventure programs and service projects. Besides Philmont, past trips have included Glacier National Park, Yellowstone and Sea Base in the Florida Keys.

For 16-year-old senior patrol leader Birkir Gudmundson, the lot represents a shared mission. “In Troop 695, this is a fundraiser to help pay for our campouts, summer camps, and other activities we participate in,” he said.

A tradition of community support

About half of the lot’s customers are repeat buyers, Gudmundson noted. “People bundle up, bring their kids, wander through the lot, and warm up by the fire,” he said. “It’s a great experience for everyone.”

Despite the cold temperatures earlier in the season, Minnesotans have proven their resilience. “We were worried the cold might keep people away, but it hasn’t affected sales at all,” Gudmundson said.

Based out of Prairie Lutheran Church at 11000 Blossom Road, Troop 695 includes both boys and girls and is open to new members. For more information, visit the troop’s Facebook page or stop by the tree lot before it closes this weekend.