For the second season, the USDA Forest Service is selling Christmas tree permits through Recreation.gov, which makes it more convenient for visitors to find and purchase permits to cut
holiday trees from their favorite forest.
In 2020, 90% of national forests that offer Christmas tree permits made them available through Recreation.gov, and more joined the system for the 2021 season.
“Every tree that is found, cut and carried home creates a new story,” said USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “These stories become the memories and traditions we carry on for generations and further connect families with their local forests.”
Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit. And kids of all ages can download, color, and decorate their tree with this Christmas tree ornament coloring page for a fun, handmade addition to their tree.
Cutting a Christmas tree improves forest health. The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees and tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide food for wildlife.