It’s a classic Christmas season scene: A family treks through the snow in search of the perfect tree for their holiday celebrations. Tree found, they cut it down, strap it to the roof of the car, and haul it (and any woodland critters the tree contains) back home to be decorated.
Permits to harvest a Christmas Tree from Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands go on sale November 13. The permit allows families to select and cut the perfect live tree for their home from the Bessey Ranger District, Pine Ridge Ranger District and Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest from Monday, November 24, through Wednesday, December 31.
The license is $10.00 per tree harvested, with a maximum of 5 trees. Families may harvest Ponderosa Pine or Eastern Red Cedars, up to 20 feet tall and 6 inches at the base.
Before heading out into the backcountry in search of the ideal tannenbaum, the US Forest Service reminds tree-cutters to be sure to plan their trip. Know what the weather will be, and prepare accordingly. Be ready for snow, dress for the weather, and keep extra dry clothes available. Be sure your vehicle is prepared with a full tank of gas and tire chains, along with a snow shovel and winter survival kit in case you become stranded.
When selecting a tree, the Forest Service asks that you take the entire tree, as close to the ground as possible – so be sure to know how tall your ceiling is before you head out, and pick the perfect tree accordingly.
The Christmas Tree Permit can be obtained on the US Forest Service website, which also provides additional regulations, tips, maps, and guidelines for selecting your tree on its website. Try to leave the critters in the forest.
