Courtesy/USDA FS

SFNF News:

• Fourth graders get one permit free

SANTA FE – Permits to cut your own Christmas tree on the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) are available for purchase beginning Monday, Nov. 19 at SFNF Headquarters, all SFNF Ranger District offices and select third-party vendors.

As part of the “Every Kid in a Park” initiative, every fourth grader is eligible for a free Christmas tree permit.

In order to redeem the free permit, the student must present a valid fourth-grade pass, downloadable at www.everykidinapark.gov. Once the pass is printed, the fourth grader must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 to pick up the permit from the SFNF office of choice. The free permits can only be acquired at an SFNF office.

The nonrefundable Christmas tree permits are for personal use only and may be purchased for $10 by check, credit/debit card or cash through Monday, Dec. 24. Note: SFNF offices are not open on weekends, but some vendors are per the vendor list below. Permit purchasers will receive a tree tag, map and guidelines for harvesting a tree.

One tag is valid for a tree up to five inches in diameter and 10 feet in height. Trees taller than 10 feet and/or wider than five inches require an additional tag. For example, a 15-foot tree requires two tags. The Santa Fe National Forest has a three-tag limit per person.

Permit holders should be prepared for unpredictable weather changes and colder conditions at higher elevations. USDA Forest Service staff may be in the cutting areas to check permits and answer questions. 

Permit holders are asked to practice good stewardship.

Christmas tree permits purchased at an SFNF office or authorized vendor are valid only on land within SFNF boundaries. Tree cutting is prohibited within 300 feet of streams, rivers and paved roads, and in all recreation camp areas, as well as congressionally designated wilderness areas.

The public may purchase Christmas tree permits at any SFNF office during normal business hours.

Note: Offices will be closed Monday, Nov. 12 for Veterans Day and Thursday, Nov. 22 for Thanksgiving Day. Since vendors will receive a limited number of permits, call in advance to check availability.

For additional information about the SFNF Christmas tree permits, contact the SFNF Headquarters at 505.438.5300 or a local SFNF Ranger District office.