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Permits for cutting a Christmas tree in a national forest are now available to purchase online through Recreation.gov.
Details about designated cutting areas, dates and types of trees that may be cut may be found at Recreation.gov.
To get a Christmas tree permit, go online to Recreation.gov and search for the area national forest you wish to go to: Ottawa or Hiawatha in the Upper Peninsula, or Chequamegon-Nicolet in northern Wisconsin. Permits for Hiawatha National Forest do not go on sale until Thursday.
It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Trees cost $5, with number limits set by each forest.
Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction. 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 -- note that a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied.
Cutting a Christmas tree is not only fun and memorable, but also improves forest health, national forest officials said in a news release. The permit system helps thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that 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 forage for wildlife.