Getting Some Help From Forest To Pick Perfect Christmas Tree

Cutting down a Christmas tree

Sonora, CA – The Stanislaus National Forest is hosting a “TREE-O” events heading into the holiday season.

There are events planned over the next few weekends in every Ranger District as the public takes to the forest in search of their perfect Christmas tree. Forest rangers will be on hand to answer questions and point people in the right direction.

“Especially for those who don’t visit the forest often, taking to the woods with the goal of cutting down your own Christmas tree can be a little overwhelming,” said Forest Public Affairs Officer Benjamin Cossel. “Our rangers will help you understand the height limitations, what tools to use, and be on hand with maps of cutting locations.”

As we reported here back in October, Kid Outdoors offers a free tree for fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass. Trees are $20.00 each, with a maximum of two trees per permit. A reservation fee of $2.50 is charged for all permits. Tree cutting dates are November 29, 2024, through December 31, 2024. Permits have been available since October 10, but trees are only authorized to be cut after Thanksgiving. Below is the list of events and their locations:

Mi-Wuk & Summit Ranger Districts:

Summit Ranger Station – Sunday, December 8, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

For more information, call 209-965-3434.

Calaveras Ranger District:

Spicer Sno Park – Friday, November 29, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Sourgrass Day Use Area – Saturday, November 30, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

For more information, call 209-795-1381.

Groveland Ranger District:

Akerson Meadow Parking Lot – Saturday, December 7 & 14, 9 a.m.–11 a.m.

Rush Creek Resort – Saturday, December 7 & 14, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

For more information, call 209-962-7825.