Permits available to cut Christmas trees in national forest

KIE RELYEA - THE BELLINGHAM HERALD

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Permits to cut a Christmas tree in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest go on sale beginning Thursday, Nov. 12.

They will be sold through Dec. 24 and allow buyers to cut Christmas trees in the eastern parts of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, King and Pierce counties. Maps and information about cutting areas will be provided with permits, which cost $10 for each tree.

Trees taller than 12 feet need special permits, which cost at least $20.

Permits are non-refundable.

Because most trees can be reached only by driving on narrow mountain roads that are unplowed, u-cut enthusiasts likely will need high-clearance vehicles equipped with tire chains. They'll also need a shovel.

It's best to go before a substantial amount of snow has fallen because access to forest roads will be easier. Leave early in the day to get the most daylight and tell friends or family where you're going and when you're coming back, advised Dave Kendrick, who oversees the U.S. Forest Service's Christmas tree permit program.

A Sno-Park permit also may be required, depending on where you park.

Christmas tree permits are sold at the forest's ranger districts and public service centers, including:

-- Glacier Public Service Center, a little past the town of Glacier on the Mount Baker Highway. Its hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. Contact: 599-2714.

-- Mount Baker Ranger Station, 810 Highway 20 in Sedro-Woolley. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. It will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 28, Dec. 5 and Dec. 12. Contact: (360) 856-5700, ext. 515

Credit cards are not accepted at ranger districts or public service centers.

For additional information and other locations for buying Christmas tree permits, go to www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs and click on "Read Full Story" under "Cut a Christmas Tree."

Call ahead for hours of operation around the holidays.

And check ranger stations for road and weather information before heading out, or go to fs.fed.us/r6/mbs.