Get your own forest Christmas tree — with a permit
Evergreen trees are covered in a fresh blanket of snow in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest near Fernan Saddle. The U.S. National Forest Service is offering Christmas tree permits for those wishing to cut down their own tree this holiday season.
Press file
The U.S. Forest Service is once again offering a great way to create holiday memories and enjoy the National Forests while finding this year’s holiday tree for your home. Permits are available for purchase at offices across North Idaho or online through www.recreation.gov.
Cost: Permit costs are $5 per tree with a maximum of three trees per household. Each tree permit allows the permit holder to cut one Christmas tree. Online purchases through www.recreation.gov will have a $2.50 administrative fee added to the total cost of tree permits.
Saturday Hours: This year, the Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District office in Fernan will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, and Saturday, Dec. 2, to sell 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.
For information, tips and permits, visit Idaho Panhandle National Forest Christmas Tree Permits at www.recreation.gov or visit the Idaho Panhandle National Forests website.