Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Christmas Tree Permit now available for purchase
By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Monday, November 13th, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY — Tis the season for Christmas Trees, which means if you plan to head out into the Wallowa Whitman National Forest (WWNF) don’t forget to get your permit.
This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within designated areas of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest!
According to the forest service, “Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you’ll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one.
Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines provided when selecting your tree.”
Below is some “need to know” information from WWNF.
NEED TO KNOW
Where to Cut Your Tree
Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or existing tree plantations.
Do not cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees.
Do not cut trees within 50 feet of road
Christmas tree cutting in Baker City Watershed, Anthony Lakes Campground, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, Starkey Experimental Forest, La Grande Watershed, Hurricane Creek and Lostine Drainages area is prohibited.
Do not cut trees in designated Old Growth areas or within 1/4 mile of Wild and Scenic River Corridors
Christmas Tree cutting within sight of a State Highway is prohibited.
Selecting Your Tree
Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit’s guidelines.
Tree Height: 15 feet maximum
Stump height: 10 inches maximum
Stump diameter: 6 inches maximum
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.
PLANNING YOUR TRIP
How to Plan Your Trip
Before you leave home, be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the tree in your home (height and width), and measure the space in your vehicle where you will be transporting the tree.
Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back.
Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip. Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads.
Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds. Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark.
Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Bring a spare key and give it to someone else in your party. Don’t get locked out of your car! Park in areas so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates.
Tools you should consider bringing with you include a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; handsaw to cut your tree; gloves to protect your hands; boots to protect your feet; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it’s cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle.
Helpful Cutting Tips
Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark.
If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap it in canvas or a tarp to prevent wind damage.
Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water frequently.
If storing your tree outside for a few days before putting it in the house, keep it in an area protected from the wind, such as the north or east side of your house or under a shaded tree.
Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow.
Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them or take them home for decorations.
