A timely reminder from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forestinformation released, USFS file photos Holiday season is just around the corner, and many folks enjoy getting their own fresh-cut tree. For those folks wishing to hunt for their tree on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest there are three options for obtaining a Christmas tree permit. Hardcopy permit tags may be purchased at some Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offices or local vendors, which will be available for in-person sales beginning November 12. One convenient option is to purchase your tree permit online through Recreation.gov. These permits are now available; all you have to do is print the permit off at home to have on hand during your outing. Christmas tree permits cost $5 each; if they are purchased online there is an additional $2.50 charged for the transaction fee. Each tree permit allows a family to cut one tree, with a tree height limit of 15 feet, or dig a small live transplant tree. Only two permits are allowed per household. The permits are non-refundable and are only usable on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Christmas trees cannot be harvested in Wilderness areas, campgrounds, developed recreation areas, or tree plantations. To purchase a Christmas tree permit online, go to Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests Christmas Tree Permit in Washington – Recreation.gov. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Permits purchased online must be printed and displayed on the vehicle dash on the day when you remove your tree from the forest. Traditional hardcopy “tag” permits may be purchased from the following Forest Service offices: Methow Valley, Wenatchee River, Cle Elum, and Naches Ranger District offices. Please note, not all national forest offices are open daily, so be sure to call ahead or check office schedule online before visiting. There are many local vendors selling national forest Christmas tree permits. A list of vendors is posted online at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/permits/christmas-tree-permit-vendors Free tree permits are available to fourth graders as part of the national Every Kid Outdoors initiative. Fourth graders with a valid Every Kid Outdoors pass can get one free holiday tree cutting permit from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. In order for students to receive a free tree permit, they must present an Every Kid Outdoors pass or a valid paper voucher printed from the Every Kid Outdoors website-https://everykidoutdoors.gov/index.htm. Tips to prepare for your outing: |
High clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended when driving on national forest roads during the winter months.
Remember to leave early in the day to allow for maximum daylight.
Also, be prepared for all types of weather. It is also a good idea to bring traction devices for cars, a shovel, warm clothing, food and water, blankets, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Don’t forget to bring a saw to cut down the tree, a tarp to wrap around the tree, and a rope to secure the tarp wrapped tree in place on your vehicle.
Know before you go!
Check the forest website to download a Christmas tree map, or call ranger district offices for information on roads or suggestions on where to go for your tree.
Check current weather and road conditions
Click on the forest roads page: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/conditions and highway pass conditions- https://wsdot.com/travel/real-time/mountainpasses/.
Be aware that some Forest Service roads are a part of the Washington State Sno-Park system and are closed to wheeled vehicle traffic and groomed for winter recreation, so a Sno-Park permit would be required beginning Dec.1.
Pack a picnic snacks and hot chocolate to make the outing a family celebration.
For more information about the Christmas tree program on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, please contact local ranger district offices or visit the forest website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/permits/forest-product-permits
