The US Forest Service has begun issuing permits to cut Christmas trees on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests.

Each permit costs $10 and allows for one tree to be cut on National Forest System Lands.  Trees taken with permits must be for personal use and not for resale.  There is a limit of five permits per household.  Before a tree can be removed from the cutting area, the permit must be clearly displayed around the stem of the tree.

For the first time, a free Christmas tree permit will be available to fourth-graders through the Every Kid in a Park initiative.  To get the free permit, the fourth-grader must present their Every Kid in a Park pass at a US Forest Service District Office.  Passes are available online at the Every Kid in a Park website.

Cutting trees is prohibited throughout Wilderness areas on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests as well as on the Laramie Ranger District’s Pole Mountain Unit.

As the threat of falling trees continues to increase, the US Forest Service is reminding all visitors to take care when venturing into the forest.  The agency reminds the public to pay attention to weather forecasts, avoid areas with beetle-killed trees on high wind days, be aware of their surroundings, and use maps to keep track of their location.

The Forest Service recommends dressing for winter conditions and making sure that vehicles are properly equipped.

More information including regulations and safety tips are available at any local Forest Service office or online at the Forest Service website.

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