The Veal family says conditions are perfect for their annual ice tree. The tree is about 60 feet high, and it towers over their home.
However, the ice tree is not really a tree at all. It is made up of branches and 2 X 4′s coated with colored water. During these conditions it doesn’t take long for the water to freeze. Vierl Veal started the tradition during the winter of 1961. He has since passed away, but the family continues to build the tree to honor his memory.
It has been several years since the ice tree has been this tall. Family members say the cold weather could help them reach historic heights. According to family legend, the sculpture grew to 70 feet tall back in the 1970′s.
No one is really sure how much water is used to make the ice tree but six hoses have been running non-stop since December. All of the water is pumped from a nearby pond.