For many families, venturing out onto public lands to cut a Christmas tree is an annual holiday tradition.
The process of obtaining permits differs a bit by agency, but families are able to cut Christmas trees on US Forest Service or BLM lands using a permit from either agency. Each permit allows the cutting of one personal-use Christmas tree and a permit is required for each individual tree visitors wish to take home.
Permits for Christmas trees are $5 per tree and non-refundable. There is a limit of five tree permits per household and the permits may be used only on those lands open to Christmas tree harvesting that are administered by the local forest and Medford District BLM. Free printable maps that identify these areas are provided at the time of permit purchase.
Permits can be obtained in person at Forest Service and BLM offices. BLM-issued holiday tree permits are available for purchase online at "forestproducts.blm.gov."
Forest Service-issued Christmas tree permits are available for purchase online through "recreation.gov." It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or login to a "recreation.gov" account to complete the transaction.
Many local businesses across southwest Oregon are selling Christmas tree permits. The current vendor list is available on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest website at "bit.ly/RRSNFXmasTrees."
