What you need to know about Christmas tree cutting in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest
Submitted by Kelsey Penrose on Thu, 12/03/2020 - 11:52am
While Christmas tree cutting permits sold out in the Tahoe Basin almost as soon as they were available, with 2,000 permits being snatched up by Nov. 17, not all is lost if you've decided to brave the wilderness to cut down your very own festive tree.
This is a hard year, and it’s going to be a hard holiday season, which is why so many of us are starting early with our holiday cheer.
While Tahoe may be sold out, the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, which covers everything from Carson to Tonopah to the Ruby Mountains, still has permits up for grabs.
For the Bridgeport and Carson Ranger Districts the information is as follows:
- The cost is $10 each with a limit of two per household
- Permits are nonrefundable and nontransferable and are only valid through Dec. 25, 2020.
- Permits are on a first come first served basis
Rules and Regulations for Bridgeport
Rules and Regulations for Carson
For tree cutting maps as well as district permit information for Austin-Tonopah, Ely, and Mountain City-Ruby Mountains-Jarbridge Ranger Districts, click here.
To purchase a Christmas tree permit online, visit https://www.recreation.gov and search for the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Christmas tree permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will need to set up or login to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction. Please be aware that if purchasing through Recreation.gov there will be an additional fee of $2.50 per transaction.
While during most years you can purchase your permits in person at the Carson Ranger District Office in Carson City, due to COVID-19, the office is closed to the public. A list of in-person vendors can be found here.
Please remember that topping trees is never permitted, and the maximum height of the stump left behind is no taller than six inches above bare soil with no live branches left on the stump.
Safety Tips
Keep your family and your own safety in mind as you head out to look for a Christmas tree on National Forest lands. Dress warmly, fill your gas tank, and bring along a saw, shovel, chains map, food, water, warm drinks, blanket(s), and first-aid kit.
Bring a rope and tarp to pack your tree in or on your vehicle for the trip home. Remember to pack out your trash. Also, make sure relatives or friends know where you are going and when to expect you home.
Getting your tree early before the snow falls usually means better access on forest roads. High-clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles and traction devices are recommended when driving on mountain roads at this time of year. Vehicles with inadequate tires and/or no chains have caused extensive problems in the past, blocking roads and preventing other drivers from being able to enter or leave the cutting areas.
Remember, most forest roads are not plowed in the winter, so access may be limited due to seasonal road closures. Leave early in the day to allow for maximum daylight. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, check road conditions before leaving, and always use caution when emerging onto main roads.
Be safe, help protect our beautiful forests, and have a happy holiday!
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