Shawnee National Forest offers new Christmas tree permit

The Shawnee National Forest offers new Christmas tree permit this year

Submitted by Sue Hirsch Public Affairs Specialist

Enjoying the fresh air while hiking the forest in search of the perfect Christmas tree can be a wonderful way to begin the holiday season.

Beginning Nov. 18, the Shawnee National Forest will offer the public an opportunity to create special holiday memories by searching for the perfect Christmas tree in the SNF.

This is the first time that such an opportunity has been offered.

Those wanting to harvest a tree will need to purchase $5 Christmas tree Permit. Only one permit is allowed per household and allows for one pine tree (except bald cypress) to be cut and taken home.

Permitters must harvest the Christmas tree on national forest land. Chainsaws may be used for cutting the tree. Permit holders must also follow Shawnee National Forest motor vehicle restrictions in removal and hauling of their Christmas tree. Trees cannot be cut from any restricted areas listed on the permit.

All permit conditions are reviewed when purchasing the permit from the Forest Service. Permits can be purchased at any of the three offices, located in Harrisburg, Vienna, and Jonesboro.

Hours of operation can be found at www.usda.gov/shawnee.

For more information and the full list of permit conditions, contact any SNF office or go online to fs.usda.gov/main/shawnee/passes-permits/forestproducts.