Flathead Forest Christmas tree permits available

Christmas tree permits are now available for $5 (cash) at each of the Flathead National Forest offices in Kalispell, Hungry Horse and Bigfork. Additionally, permits can be purchased from a variety of retail vendors in the area.

Each permit is good for the harvest of one tree from National Forest land, with a maximum of three permits per household.

As part of the national Every Kid in a Park initiative, all fourth-graders are eligible for one free Christmas tree permit. For students to receive a free tree permit, they must present a valid Every Kid in the Park Pass. To obtain the pass, visit www.everykidinapark.gov, follow the instructions on the website, then print out the paper voucher. Bring the voucher to a Forest Service office to claim the free permit. The fourth-grader and adult must present the voucher in person at the office location.

People are advised to not cut trees in campgrounds or other developed areas, plantations, in previously thinned stands and areas posted as closed to Christmas tree harvest. Select a tree that is 4 inches or less in diameter at the stump. Cut the stump as close to the ground as possible and don’t harvest an oversized tree to just utilize the top portion. Once your tree is cut, securely fasten the permit at the base of the tree before transporting.

People are cautioned to check the weather forecast and let someone know where they are going and are expected to return.

The Christmas Tree Harvest Guide and a complete list of vendors can be found on the National Forest Service website: www.fs.usda.gov/main/flathead/passes-permits/forestproducts.

Maps are available for purchase at Flathead National Forest offices. For more information about vendors and cutting trees on the Flathead National Forest, contact a local office:

Tally Lake Ranger District/Supervisor’s Office, 758-5204

Hungry Horse, Glacier View and Spotted Bear Ranger Districts, 387-3800

Swan Lake Ranger District, 837-7500