Christmas tree cutting permits available

Christmas tree cutting permits from the Flathead National Forest are available for $5 each from Forest Service offices in Kalispell, Hungry Horse and Bigfork and vendors across the valley. Each permit is valid for one tree with a maximum of two permits per household. Commercial permits are not available.

Trees may not be cut in campgrounds or other developed areas, plantations, previously thinned stands and areas posted closed to Christmas tree cuttings.

The permit must be fastened around the tree trunk prior to transporting it from the National Forest. Trees should be no more than 3-4 inches in diameter at the stump and cut as close to the ground as possible.

For more information, contact the Hungry Horse-Glacier View and Spotted Bear ranger districts at 387-3800, the Tally Lake Ranger District or Flathead National Forest Supervisor’s Office at 758-5204 or the Swan Lake Ranger District at 837-7500.