JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Christmas tree cutting is a popular activity this week. Maybe it’s about burning a few of those Thanksgiving Day calories and getting out into the forest while it is still possible with low snow levels.
Christmas tree permits are now available for purchase online through December 31.
“Trekking through the forest in search of that special holiday tree is a beloved tradition for many and the perfect way to start the holiday season,” reflects Tricia O’Connor, Forest Supervisor.
The Forest Service will also offer Christmas tree tags at district offices, and at the Alpine Visitor Center. Call ahead as offices remain closed to walk-in business due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Set up an online account, complete your transaction, and you’re good to go for tree hunting.
Each permit is $15 for any tree, plus a $2.50 processing fee. Users can purchase up to five trees per account. The permit must be printed and placed in the windshield of your vehicle as you remove your tree(s) from the forest.
Additionally, all 4th graders throughout the United States receive a free Christmas tree permit, as part of the Every Kid Outdoors Program.
Christmas on the BLM
Christmas tree permits are also available at BLM Wyoming field offices and online.
Permits may be purchased between 7:45am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday from any BLM Wyoming field office. The cost for a permit is $5 to $10 per tree, depending on location. Up to a maximum of five Christmas trees can be purchased by an individual for personal use.
This year, the permits are also available online from most BLM Wyoming field offices. Permits will be available Nov. 22.
Make sure you know where you are. A BLM permit is valid for trees located on BLM-administered lands only. Permits for trees on U.S. Forest Service-administered land can be obtained at your local Forest Service office and at some BLM offices.
Tree cutters must have a valid permit with them while cutting a tree. Trees may not be cut within wilderness areas, wilderness study areas, timber sale areas or administrative sites such as developed campgrounds.
Although the Christmas tree permits are for any tree species, the BLM recommends Engelmann spruce, sub-alpine fir, Douglas fir, Ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine as the best species to cut for your Christmas tree. Christmas trees harvested from aspen stands and dense young stands will contribute to forest health and improve wildlife habitat.
It is the purchaser’s responsibility to not trespass on private land and to make sure you’re cutting the tree in the correct area. Be prepared for winter weather and high-country conditions.
For more information, please visit www.blm.gov/wyoming-christmas-trees or call your local BLM office:
Buffalo Field Office (307) 684-1100
Casper Field Office (307) 261-7600
Cody Field Office (307) 578-5900
Kemmerer Field Office (307) 828-4500
Lander Field Office (307) 332-8400
Newcastle Field Office (307) 746-6600
Pinedale Field Office (307) 367-5300
Rawlins Field Office (307) 328-4200
Rock Springs Field Office (307) 352-0256
Worland Field Office (307) 347-5100
Wyoming State Office (307) 775-6314
