However there are specific guidelines you should probably follow to avoid running afoul of the Forest Service.
Through its permit program, youll be helping to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees.
Removing the trees already designated for removal by the Forest Service allows other trees to grow bigger and stronger.
Plus, youll get the pride and satisfaction of chopping down the perfect Christmas tree for your home.
Its a true win-win.
But let’s say you don’t care about the environment.
I mean, this is Christmas we’re talking about.
This is all aboutyourneeds and experiences.
It’s also a lot cheaper than buying one from a tree lot.
Choose your forest.Determine which participating forest works best for your Christmas tree outing.
Each forest will have specific guidelines and season dates for cutting a holiday tree.
Buy a permit.Purchase and print your permit before heading out to the forest.
Check road and forest conditions and prepare for adverse weather.
Avoid venturing onto private property.
Choose a tree in an overcrowded stand to help thin it out.
Cut your tree close to the ground.
The stump you leave behind should be about 6 inches tall.
Bring a rope and tarp to move your tree from the cutting area to your vehicle.
Secure your tree to your vehicle to ensure it remains in place for your trip home.
What else you better know
Christmas tree permit sale dates may vary by national forest.
Recreation.gov encourages families to check local forest guidelines to gather all information before purchasing to ensure they are prepared.
A new permit is required each year to cut your own Christmas tree.
This permit program is run by the USDA Forest Service, which isnot the same thingas U.S. National Parks.
