Christmas tree permits now available

Christmas tree permits from the Flathead National Forest are available for $5 each from Forest Service offices in Kalispell, Hungry Horse and Bigfork, or in Whitefish at the Cenex Zip Trip convenience store on U.S. 93 South.

Each permit is valid for one tree and there is a maximum of two permits per household. Commercial permits are not available.

Trees should be four inches in diameter or less at the stump. The stump should be cut as close to the ground as possible. Do not cut the top of a tree or leave live limbs attached to the stump.

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.

The permit is only for National Forest System lands.

For a permit or more information about vendors and cutting Christmas trees on the Flathead National Forest, contact a local Forest Service Office:

Tally Lake Ranger District/Supervisor’s Office 758-5204

Hungry Horse-Glacier View and Spotted Bear Ranger Districts  387-3800

Swan Lake Ranger District 837-7500