How to get a Christmas tree permit in Utah

The Benefits of Cutting Down Your Own Christmas Tree in Utah

Cutting down your own Christmas tree in Utah offers multiple benefits. It’s an opportunity to create unique family traditions, explore the state’s beautiful national forests, and actively participate in sustainable forest management.

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Moreover, it supports local economies through the purchase of permits for tree cutting, and helps maintain the health of forest ecosystems by reducing overgrowth.

 

What do you need in terms of regulations and permits when cutting down a Christmas tree?

When cutting down your own Christmas tree, you must adhere to specific regulations and permits. A Forest Service-issued permit, which typically costs around $5 to $10, is required for each Christmas tree cut from a National Forest.

Along with the permit, you’ll receive guidelines to follow when harvesting the tree, ensuring the activity is conducted safely and legally. It’s crucial to check with your local Forest Service office or the Recreation.gov website for specific rules and season dates for cutting.

 

What are the necessary tools and supplies required for Christmas tree cutting?

The right tools and supplies are crucial to turn this festive activity into a smooth, enjoyable experience.

– Hand Saw: This is your main tool. Go for one with sharp teeth and a comfortable grip for effective and easy cutting.

– Measuring Tape: Size matters! Use a measuring tape to estimate the height of your tree and ensure it will fit perfectly in your home.

– Tree Stand: This is the base for your tree’s display. Choose one that can hold the size of your tree and has a water reservoir to keep your tree fresh throughout the season.

– Blanket or Tarp: Not your typical tool, but it protects your tree and vehicle during transport. It keeps loose branches in place and prevents scratches.

 

How can you ensure safety while cutting down a Christmas tree?

– Dress Smartly: Comfortable, layered clothing will shield you from the cold. Sturdy shoes with good grip will provide stability on uneven terrain.

– Gear Up: Gloves will keep your hands safe from splinters, while safety goggles can protect your eyes from flying debris.

– Handle Tools with Care: Always keep the saw away from your body while cutting and maintain a firm grip to prevent any mishaps.

 

– Inspect Your Tree: Before you start cutting, check the tree for any potential hazards, such as dead branches or wildlife nests. Make sure it’s not leaning precariously.

– Plan Your Felling Direction: Decide beforehand which way the tree will fall. Clear the path and ensure everyone around is aware before you make the final cut.

Could you provide a step-by-step guide on how to cut down a Christmas tree?

– Find Your Tree: Utah’s varied terrain is home to a variety of evergreens, each with a unique appeal. Wander through the designated cutting areas until you find a tree that captures your heart. Aim for one that’s robust, evenly shaped and suitable for your space.

– Size it Up: Before you make the first cut, measure the tree to make sure it fits in your home. A quick check with a measuring tape can save you from unexpected surprises later.

– Gather Your Tools: Arm yourself with the necessary equipment. A sharp hand saw, protective gloves, and any other tools you might need should be within reach.

– Prep the Base: Trim lower branches from the trunk so that the tree fits nicely into your stand. This not only makes it easier to set up at home, but also enhances its appearance.

– Start Cutting: Stand on the side of the tree that you want it to fall towards. Make a straight cut across the trunk with your hand saw. Be patient and let the saw do its job.

– Control the Fall: As you near the end of the cut, be ready for the tree to start leaning. Make sure there’s a clear path for it to fall without hitting anything or anyone.

– Ready for Transport: Once your tree is down, prepare it for the journey home. Bind the branches together with sturdy rope or twine to prevent damage.

– Carry with Care: Lift the tree carefully, providing enough support to avoid bending or breaking. If you’re using a roof rack, put a blanket between the tree and the rack to prevent scratching.

Home Setup: When you get home, trim about an inch off the base of the tree to improve water absorption. Place it in a sturdy stand filled with water to keep it fresh.

Decorate with Love: With your tree safely installed, the fun part begins. Dress it up with your favorite ornaments, lights, and tinsel to create a dazzling display that showcases your unique holiday spirit.

What should be done after the tree has been cut down

Keeping Your Tree Fresh: To ensure your tree remains lush and aromatic till the end of the holiday season, you need a mix of careful attention and dedicated care.

– Hydrate Constantly: Right after you get your tree home, put it in a stand filled with water. It’s essential to check the water level daily and make sure it never drops below the tree trunk’s base.

– Choose the Right Spot: Place your tree away from heat sources like heaters, fireplaces, or direct sun exposure to avoid early drying. Spritz

– Composting: If there’s a composting facility in your area, find out if they accept Christmas trees.

– Creating a Legacy: As the decorations come off and the lights dim, the remnants of your holiday celebrations are intricately linked with the life of the tree.

Where to Find the Perfect Christmas Tree

a. Ashley National Forest

If you are around Flaming Gorge-Vernal Ranger District, reach out to them at (435) 784-3445 for more details. Their office is open from Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Also, you can visit Flaming Gorge Resort or Flaming Gorge Market and Mercantile for permits.

 

For those in Vernal, the Forest Supervisor’s office will have permits available from Monday to Friday. Alternatively, visit Davis Jubilee Store or Liberty Corner any day of the week for your permit.

b. Dixie National Forest

Starting November 4, permits for cutting trees will be available from several locations. In Cedar City, you can get yours from the Ranger District office at 1789 North Wedgewood Lane. They’re open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The permit costs $10.00 for a tree up to 10 feet and $20.00 for a tree 11 to 20 feet. You’re allowed to cut sub-alpine fir, white fir, pinyon pine, and juniper.

 

c. Manti-La Sal National Forest

For fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass, the Fishlake National Forest offers a free Christmas tree permit. This is part of a wider effort to engage the younger generation in conservation efforts. The pass gives free access to over 2,000 federal land and water sites across the country for a year. You can find out more about getting the pass on the Every Kid Outdoors website.

 

d. Fishlake National Forest

At Fishlake National Forest, you can get one for just $10.00 if it’s up to 10 feet tall, or $20.00 if it’s between 10 and 20 feet. But remember, you’ve got to come in person and pick up your permit – no mail orders or phone requests. Once you’ve found your perfect tree (just not a ponderosa pine, those are off-limits), attach the permit securely before transporting it home.

 

e. Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

In the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, you can start purchasing your Christmas tree permits for $15.00 from Monday, November 4, 2019 in the Heber-Kamas area. You can buy one permit per person at either the Heber Ranger District office or the Kamas Ranger District office, Monday to Friday, between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm. Alternatively, you can visit Silver Eagle in Heber or Mirror Lake Service Chevron in Kamas. You’re allowed to cut sub-alpine fire, white fire, and lodgepole pine trees that are 20 feet tall or shorter until December 25th. Don’t forget to tag your tree before taking it home!