Forest Christmas tree permits now available
Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 3 years, 9 months AGO
USFS
The U.S. Forest Service is once again offering a way to create holiday memories and enjoy the national forests while finding a Christmas tree for your home.
Christmas tree cutting permits are available for purchase at offices across North Idaho or online through www.recreation.gov.
Permits cost $5 each and allow the permit holder to cut one Christmas tree. Three tree permits are allowed per household. Online purchases will incur a $2.50 administrative fee.
The Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District office in Fernan will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26 and Saturday, Dec. 3, for those who wish to purchase permits in person.
Free Christmas Tree Permits for Fourth Graders: Through the Every Kid Outdoors program, fourth graders are eligible for one free Christmas tree permit. Fourth graders must present a valid EKO pass or paper voucher at a Forest Service office to receive a free permit. To obtain the pass or paper voucher, fourth graders need to visit www.everykidoutdoors.gov. Vouchers can also be redeemed on Recreation.gov.
Know Before You Go: Winter weather can change rapidly. Most National Forest roads are not maintained for winter driving. Forest staff recommend bringing traction devices and a shovel, extra food, drinking water, winter clothing, blankets, a flashlight and a first-aid kit.
Don’t forget a tool for cutting the tree and a rope or cord to secure it to vehicles. Tree cutting and travel may take longer than anticipated, so let a friend or family member know where you are going, get an early start and leave the woods well before dark.