Kalispell, MT —Many forest products are available for public use on Flathead National Forest. Winter brings the availability of Christmas trees to the local public.
This year, people planning on finding a Christmas tree on the forest can purchase a $5 tree permit online or at a Flathead National Forest office in Kalispell, Bigfork, or Hungry Horse. Flathead National Forest is one of thirteen national forests participating in the online permit system through Open Forest.
“I encourage families to enjoy an outing on the forest,” said Flathead National Forest Supervisor Chip Weber. “Finding the perfect Christmas tree is an important tradition for many, and the forest is an ideal place to spend a day in the woods and make holiday memories.”
Fourth graders are eligible for a free tree permit as part of the Every Kid Outdoors initiative by printing out an Every Kid Outdoors pass voucher from the program’s website, and bringing it to a Flathead National Forest office to exchange for a permit. Every Kid Outdoors tree permits cannot be obtained via Open Forest.
People should pay attention to the species of trees available for cutting, and take a moment to review guidelines to ensure that harvest activities improve forest health.
Christmas tree permits purchased online must be printed and are only valid for trees harvested from Flathead National Forest.
For more information about Flathead National Forest Christmas tree permits, please call (406) 758-5204.
