Monday, December 6, 2010

Cut your own Christmas Tree in the White Mountain National Forest


Cut Your own Christmas Tree for $5 in the WMNF

Cutting your own Christmas tree can be an enjoyable adventure for the entire
family. This year you may want to plan a visit to your National Forest! Bundle up, make a
lunch, bring your handsaw or ax and look for that special tree. You will need a permit, sharp
saw, thermos of cocoa and a little patience.

A Christmas tree permit can be purchased for $5 from the White Mountain National Forest.
Offices are located in Campton, Lincoln, Gorham and Conway NH. For information about
hours of operation and directions to office locations visit our website.
Several different types of evergreen grow in the White Mountain National Forest. Many people
prefer the balsam fir because of fragrance and needle retention. Others prefer the spruce because of the fullness of the branches and the classic shape. Keep in mind that a wild tree may not have the perfect appearance of a commercial tree. Be prepared to do some real searching.
Somewhere out there is your ideal Christmas tree!
Please remember:
· Trees are for personal use only, not for resale. Each family may cut one tree per permit.
· 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 in or near campgrounds, picnic areas, Experimental Forests, Wilderness,
timber sale areas, or within 100' of a state highway. When you purchase the permit ask if
there are any known "off limit" areas.
· Do not cut trees larger than 8" in diameter at chest height. Pack down limb piles low
enough so they are within 2' of the ground. Scatter limbs and wood at least 25 feet away
from roads, streams, hiking trails, and property boundaries.
· Cut your tree so remaining stumps will be less than 10" in height.
· Attach your tree tag after cutting and before transporting your tree.

Be prepared for winter -- dress appropriately in warm clothing, and make your day a safe one!

No comments: