Hiawatha National Forest Christmas tree permits available

Christmas tree permits are now available from the Hiawatha National Forest and the Ottawa National Forest from the United States Forest Service. Permits are available for $5 per tree until Dec. 31, so long as people follow the rules and regulations set in place by the USFS. The USFS says that those looking to harvest a tree need to select a balsam fir or spruce away from campgrounds or other developed or dispersed recreation sites that is located at least 100 feet from a lake or river. Additionally, no one may harvest trees from Wilderness Areas, Research Natural Areas or Recreation Residence tracts, or from active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees. When selecting a specific tree, the USFS says to choose one 20 feet tall or less, with a stump height of 12 inches or less.

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