Andrew Alire, owner of Alire Christmas Trees in 2018 with one of his large trees won’t be selling Christmas trees this year in Los Alamos. Courtesy photo

Staff Report

Carson National Forest, El Rito District, recently announced commercial permits for cutting Christmas trees will not be issued this year due to the potential threat to the Mexican spotted owl, which is listed under the Endangered Species Act.

Alire Christmas Trees owner Andrew Alire said that due to this announcement, he won’t be selling his trees this year in the parking lot at the Knights of Columbus at Trinity Drive and DP Road. Alire has sold his trees since 2001 in Los Alamos and said that he looks forward to seeing his customers next year.

USDA Forest Service Deputy Director of Communication and Engagement Shayne Martin addressed the issue Tuesday with the Los Alamos Daily Post.

“A large amount of the Carson National Forest is land that is defined as critical habitat for the Mexican spotted owl,” Martin said. “As of now a lot of commercial activity under the umbrella of restoration has stopped due to the injunction.”