U.S. Forest Service officials in Vermont are encouraging the public to purchase Christmas tree removal permits should they be interested in a $5 tree for the holidays.
This is a one-time opportunity to cut down a Christmas tree on National Forest land during the 2019 holiday season.
In addition, this year all fourth-graders can again take advantage of the Every Kid Outdoors initiative and get a free Christmas tree voucher at everykidoutdoors.gov. Fourth-graders who present a printed copy of the voucher may redeem it for an Every Kid Outdoors Pass and a Christmas tree removal permit.
Christmas trees for personal use may be cut on the Green Mountain National Forest, subject to the following conditions:
• A “Christmas Tree Removal” permit must be purchased at the Forest Service Ranger Station in Manchester Center. The permit must be attached to the tree before transporting it from the site where it was cut.
• The permit holder is responsible for knowing that the tree comes from Forest Service land. Maps are available when you purchase your permit.
• Trees must be shorter than 20 feet tall.
• The height of the tree stump should be a maximum of 6 inches above the soil.
• Christmas trees shall not be cut in active timber sales, wilderness areas, campgrounds, picnic areas, or within 25 feet of any Forest Service–, town-, or state-maintained road.
• Only one Christmas tree permit will be issued per household per year.
• Permits are not refundable.
• Trees obtained under the permit may not be resold.
For more information, visit the Manchester Center Ranger Station on 2538 Depot St., or call 802-362-2307.