Christmas tree permits available, free to 4th-graders

Christmas tree cutting is an opportunity to create a quality moment with loved ones at “the most wonderful time of the year,” that will paint cherished life-long memories.

Permits are available for $5 to anyone who wishes to harvest a Christmas tree on America’s public lands stewarded by the Bureau of Land Management. However, under the Every Kid in a Park Initiative fourth-graders who present a valid Fourth Grade Pass will receive a free permit.

Permits are available during normal business hours at the BLM Field Offices in Glasgow, Havre, Lewistown and Malta.

Christmas tree cutting permits can also be obtained at Buckhorn Store, 143 Whitcomb St., Zortman, Montana, Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 12-6 p.m.

When selecting a tree please, follow a few simple rules:

►Do not cut trees greater than 6-inches in diameter or taller than 15-feet.

►Try to select a Christmas tree from overstocked areas where thinning would provide benefits to the residual stand of young trees.

►Cut the Christmas tree off as close to the ground as possible and below the lowest live green branch.

►Lop and scatter any unused portion of the tree so remaining slash and debris lies directly on the ground.

“Although most folks have a favorite area to hunt for that perfect Christmas tree, there are maps available at the BLM office for those who don’t know where to go,” said BLM forester, Bruce Reid. “Also, please remember that the Christmas tree permit does not allow for access across private lands, permission is still necessary from the landowner.”