CLICK TO HEAR JACK HALL’S INTERVIEW WITH CHELSEA CALERI, HIAWATHA FOREST
The Hiawatha National Forest is now selling permits for you to cut that perfect Christmas Tree as we head into the holiday season. The permits are on sale now at www.recreation.gov, and cost $5 apiece, plus a service fee of $2.50. That allows you to go into designated areas of the forest to cut down a tree that you can bring home with you. The information is all at www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/hiawatha.
“There are a couple of maps that show areas that are closed to trees,” Hiawatha National Forest spokeswoman Chelsea Caleri told RRN News. “There are a few areas of the forest that are closed because of other activities or other protections in those areas. There are also a couple of tips and tricks for getting that tree home with you.”
It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Select the type and number of holiday tree permits desired. There is a three permit maximum per family. Once the transaction is complete, you can download/print the permit.
“We don’t want you to cut down any of those red pines,” Caleri said. “We’re looking at spruce trees and balsams.”
Where to Cut Your Tree
Select a location away from lakes, campgrounds or other developed or dispersed recreation sites
Do not harvest a tree from a Wilderness area, Research Natural Area or Recreation Residence tracts.
Do not cut trees within 100 feet of a lake or river.
Do not cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees.
Selecting Your Tree
There are limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted.
Tree Height: 20 feet maximum
Stump height: 12 inches maximum
Cut only Balsam and Spruce Trees, not pine trees
Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree
If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.
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