Christmas Tree
Farms, Tree Lots, Hayrides, Sleigh Rides and Other Winter Fun
State map
Permits for you-cut trees are available from private, federal forests
On the busiest “Christmas tree” hunting and bough gathering weeks of the
year, Washington’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking for the
public’s help to protect school trust land trees. Trees and boughs are not
available from trust lands, but private you-cut and national forest permits
are available. “Cutting a Christmas tree is a great family tradition,” said
Doug Sutherland, Commissioner of Public Lands. “But people need to remember
that cutting trees or boughs from a state forests isn’t allowed.”
DNR is steward of state trustland forests managed to help fund construction
of public schools, universities and other state institutions, and to help
fund local services in many westside counties.
Christmas tree cutting adventure — the right alternatives.
Private tree farms offer varied types of trees, and types of experiences
for patrons to cut a “Christmas tree.” Phone books or newspaper ads provide
information.
For a $5 fee, you can cut a tree in a national forest. Permits are
available at Hood Canal Ranger District in Hoodsport, Quilcene Ranger
District in Quilcene, Quinault Ranger District in Quinault, Soleduck Ranger
District in Forks, or in Olympia at 1835 Black Lake Blvd. Phone:
360-956-2402.
Please be careful when you cut a tree or some boughs. Cutting boughs can
destroy decades-old trees that are well on their way to becoming forests.
When the top branches are cut off a young tree, it is more vulnerable to
disease that ultimately can destroy it.
Help protect state trust land trees that will build Washington’s future schools
As always, DNR officials are asking private citizens to help thwart theft by calling the county sheriff or a toll-free DNR hotline, 1-800-527-3305, if they suspect trees or boughs are being cut from trust lands. Penalties for damaging or stealing trust land evergreens can include fines and jail time. The more serious cases are turned over to a county prosecutor who cooperates with DNR
Notes:
In addition to the information above, check out addition rules for these areas:
