Christmas tree permits available through end of year

JEMEZ SPRINGS — Clark Griswold’s of the world — those wanting to go out into nature and cutting down their own tree — can do so by getting a Christmas tree permit from the Santa Fe National Forest.

Sales of the permits will continue through Dec. 31 and can be purchased by visiting recreation.gov. Those who purchase a permit online should print it out and place it on the dashboard of their vehicle before cutting their tree. A digital image will not be accepted as a valid permit.

People can also get permits in person by visiting the U.S. Forest Service’s supervisor’s office in Jemez, which will also have pre-cut trees available for purchase, though availability is subject to weather and supply.

One tree tag is valid for a tree up to 5 inches in diameter and 10 feet tall. Trees taller than 10 feet and/or wider than 5 inches require an additional tag.

Additionally, as part of the Every Kid Outdoors program, every fourth grader is eligible for a free Christmas tree permit with a valid Every Kid Outdoors pass, which are available on the Every Kid Outdoors website.

Permit holders should be prepared for unpredictable weather changes and colder conditions at higher elevations. SFNF Christmas tree permits are valid only on land within forest boundaries. Tree cutting is prohibited in developed recreation sites and congressionally designated wilderness areas and within 300 feet of streams, rivers and paved roads.