Forest Service Christmas tree permits available for purchase

CWhite Mountain National Forest officials are welcoming the public to select and cut a Christmas tree on the WMNF with the purchase of a $5 permit. Permits are available for purchase online (an additional $2.50 service fee applies) at recreation.gov/tree-permits or in-person at a WMNF office. Fourth graders with an “Every Kid Outdoors” pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit.

Additional information to know:

■Only 1 permit issued per household per year. Trees are for personal use only, not for resale. Each family may cut one tree per permit per year.

■Use only hand tools to cut Christmas trees. Chainsaws are not permitted.

■Make sure you are on National Forest land. Respect the rights of landowners when crossing private property.

■Do not cut trees within 100 feet of campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads or developed recreation areas, experimental forests, designated wilderness areas, water bodies, active timber sales.

■Do not cut trees within 100 feet of paved roads and 50 feet from dirt roads.

■When you purchase the permit ask if there are any known “off limit” areas.

■Do not cut trees larger than 6 inches in diameter at chest height. Pack down limb piles low enough so they are within 2 feet of the ground.

■Cut your tree so the remaining stumps will be less than 10 inches in height.

■Be prepared for winter – dress appropriately in warm clothing and make your day a safe one.

White Mountain National Forest Offices

Pemigewasset Ranger District: 71 White Mountain Drive, Campton. 603-536-6100

Saco Ranger District:  33 Kancamagus Highway, Conway. 603-447-5448

Androscoggin Ranger District: 300 Glen Road, Gorham. 603-466-2713