Forest Christmas Tree Permits On Sale Now
Sonora, CA – While we have not even been spooked yet, the Stanislaus National Forest is already looking ahead to Christmas to help families find the perfect tree.
The forest is once again offering Christmas tree permits through recreation.gov by clicking here. Christmas trees are available for purchase on recreation.gov, with permits for two trees per permit costing $40.00 or one for $20.00. Fourth graders can use their Every Kid Outdoors pass to obtain one free tree.
The permits went on sale this week, and there is a $2.50 reservation fee for all permits charged by recreation.gov. However, those wanting a tree cannot begin cutting until November 29, the day after Thanksgiving. As we reported last year, some people were upset that the forest allowed for cutting the trees after the Thanksgiving holiday, when many argued that the holiday is when they traditionally decorate for Christmas. Forest officials countered that Christmas tree farm owners in the area had asked that the cutting be delayed through the Thanksgiving Holiday because it is typically the highest-grossing weekend for those farmers.
“We really heard from folks that part of their tradition was using the long Thanksgiving holiday when family was around to get out into the forest, harvest their Christmas tree, and begin the holiday season, so we decided to change things this year so folks could have that memory,” explained Stanislaus National Forest Recreation Officer, Casey Jardine.
Cutting Christmas trees improves forest health by thinning densely populated stands of small-diameter trees and identifying areas that benefit from thinning. This helps other trees grow larger and open areas for wildlife food. However, seasonal road closures will take effect on December 16, 2024, affecting higher-elevation roads. Visit the website for more information on motor vehicle use designations and dates.
