Christmas tree cutting season opens in Lassen

Christmas tree cutting season opened Tuesday, Nov. 1, on the Lassen National Forest. Permits for this activity are $10 per tree sold through Dec. 17.

Each permit allows cutting one Christmas tree on national forest lands from until Dec. 25. Households are limited to two permits. Permits come with a map showing cutting areas, requirements and helpful tips.

Permits are sold at the Mineral Work Center, 38795 Highway 36 East, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturdays only, Nov. 26-Dec. 17. Permits may also be purchased through the mail or online at: www.fs.usda.gov/lassen.

Mailed requests for permits must be received by Dec. 9 and addressed to: Hat Creek Ranger Station, P.O. Box 220, 43225 East Highway 299, Fall River Mills, CA 96028.

To expedite requests, write “Christmas Tree Permit” on the envelope.

When purchasing by mail, please include the following: printed name and address to which the permit(s) are to be mailed, purchaser’s daytime telephone number and a check or money order (with driver’s license number written upon it) for $10.00 per permit. Make checks out to “USDA Forest Service.”

Also provide the name of the person who will be signing the permit and cutting the tree. Please allow at least one week for processing.

Tree cutters must ensure that the tree permit tag is visible at all times during transport. The permit is required to be attached to the tree and sealed so that the permit must be cut or the seal broken to be removed. Those planning to transport more than five trees in the same vehicle will require a transportation permit from the Sheriff’s Office.

Remember to be prepared for sudden weather changes and colder conditions in higher elevations, warned Rod Vineyard. A fun family outing can become very uncomfortable and even dangerous with a quick change of weather for the unprepared.Although the permits expire on Dec. 25, forest officials recommend cutting trees early in the season before the higher elevations become snowbound. Trees can stay fresh for quite some time if cared for properly.

One helpful hint: bring an old tarp in which to wrap the tree during transport to prevent wind damage. The tarp also helps protect against broken branches and other damage as the tree is removed from the forest.Once it arrives at your home, keep a tree fresh by cutting two inches from the bottom and place it in water. Keep the tree watered and in a shady spot outside until it’s time to bring it inside