Gathering up the family and heading to a forest or tree farm to cut down a Christmas tree is a tradition for many Colorado households. Once you get your Christmas tree cutting permit, the process of obtaining your tree can be a fun challenge that not only provides that fragrant holiday scent to homes, but helps manage certain areas of our national forests.
“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,” according to a 2022 USDA Forest Service press release.
“Many families are discovering their local forest for the first time to bring home their special holiday tree,” USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore said in the press release. “These experiences help connect people to their local national forest and become treasured family memories.”
According to the USDA Forest Service, 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.
Find out where and how you can get a Christmas tree cutting permit by visiting recreation.gov. Hoping to obtain a free Christmas tree this year? Find out how by reading this article.