Tahoe Basin Christmas tree online permit sales begin Nov. 16
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Tue, 11/10/2020 - 9:25am
Event Date:
Repeats every week until Mon Nov 30 2020 .
November 16, 2020 (All day)
November 23, 2020 (All day)
November 30, 2020 (All day)
The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will begin selling Christmas tree permits online beginning Monday, Nov. 16.
To get a permit, maps and details about dates, designated cutting areas, fees and types of trees can be found on the website, www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/ltbmu.
Cutting under these permits is allowed until Dec. 31, to accommodate military families and others who may need to celebrate a delayed Christmas.
Permits will only be sold online and cost $10 each, plus a $2.50 online processing fee with a limit of one per family. The $10 permit fee will be waived for any fourth-grade student who has an Every Kid Outdoors voucher obtainable at https://everykidoutdoors.gov/index.htm. The $2.50 processing fee still applies.
It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or login to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction and should print the permit prior to arrival at the cutting area.
Permit holders may choose from a variety of pine, fir or cedar trees up to six inches in diameter (at the base) in specially designated cutting areas. Select a tree that is six inches or less in diameter at the base of the tree and be sure to choose a tree that is within 10 feet of another green tree. Do not remove the top of the tree, cut down the entire tree and leave a stump that is six inches or less above the ground.
Scatter all discarded branches away from roads, ditches, and culverts. Place the permit on the dashboard of your vehicle before leaving the cutting area.
Permit holders should follow permit guidelines for responsible collection, including not trespassing onto private property when entering or leaving National Forest cutting areas. Observe seasonal road closures and be prepared to hike to the cutting area to find a tree. No off-road travel is allowed. Park in legal areas and do not block gates. Weather permitting, some National Forest roads will remain open to improve access to cutting areas.
Cutting a Christmas tree also 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 that tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps remaining trees grow larger and can open areas that provide forage for wildlife.
Finally, it’s important to remember that weather conditions in the mountains are unpredictable and travel during winter weather can be dangerous due to wet and/or icy roads.
On stormy days, wind may cause branches or trees to fall, so visitors should avoid cutting on wet, windy days. Always check the weather before heading out and tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Dress appropriately for cold weather conditions and be prepared for ice and snow.
Carry tire chains and a shovel and bring emergency supplies, including water, food, blankets and a first-aid kit. Keep in mind, mobile devices may not work in some areas, so develop an emergency plan in case you cannot call for help.
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