Photo: sockagphoto (Shutterstock)
If you’re planning on bringing a live evergreen tree into your home to celebrate the holiday season (and haven’t already done so), you may find that the pickings are slim at the usual spots (like street corners, otherwise vacant lots, and dedicated Christmas tree farms). But even if that’s not the case, you may be interested in trying a new tree source this year. How does a U.S. National Forest sound?
It probably sounds illegal, but if you go through the proper channels, it’s absolutely possible. Plus, it can even help maintain healthy forests. Here’s what to know about getting a permit through the program.
Getting a Christmas tree from a National Forest
Before you grab an axe, saw, or other tree-cutting tool, there are a few things to know about this program. First of all, a quick clarification: U.S. National Forests (maintained and operated by the the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service) are not the same thing as U.S. National Parks. So don’t wander into a National Park expecting to chop down a tree.
If you’re unsure whether the grouping of trees you’re thinking of is, in fact, a National Forest, visit this page on Recreation.gov and type in either the name of your state, or the name of the forest you had in mind. If you do have a National Forest in your area, and it’s one of the more than 90% selling Christmas tree permits (and they’re not sold out), you’re well on your way to getting that tree.
How to get a permit
Permits for cutting down a Christmas tree in a National Forest can be purchased online or, in some cases, in the forest’s office, if it has reopened since COVID closures. (If you opt to buy one in person, call ahead to be sure the office is open and they still have permits left.) Each permit costs between $5 and $20, depending on the location of the forest.
This should go without saying, but only cut down trees located in designated and approved areas in the forest—this isn’t a free-for-all.
How this program helps the forests
The whole idea of cutting down a tree in a National Forest may seem strange, but according to the U.S. Forest Service, it actually improves forest health:
The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees and tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide food for wildlife.
Just be sure to follow all rules and regulations when selecting and chopping down your tree.
