The tradition of bringing a fresh evergreen tree into the home for the holidays remains a cherished annual event. Harvesting a tree yourself offers a satisfying experience, connecting the celebration directly to the outdoors. Finding the perfect tree requires knowing the appropriate location and the necessary regulations. This can be achieved through two primary avenues: private commercial farms or government-managed public lands.
Commercial Choose-and-Cut Farms
The most straightforward method for harvesting a fresh Christmas tree is visiting a private, commercial “choose-and-cut” farm. These operations are designed for customer convenience, providing a family-friendly environment without requiring special government permits. The typical experience involves walking through acres of cultivated trees, often including popular species like Fraser Fir, Douglas Fir, and Scotch Pine, to select a desired specimen.
Most farms provide a handsaw for cutting and offer complimentary services like shaking the tree to remove loose needles and baling it in netting for simplified transport. Pricing structures vary, usually determined either by the species and height (e.g., $10 per foot for a Douglas Fir) or a single flat rate. Farms frequently enhance the visit with amenities like hot cider, gift shops, and assistance with securely tying the tree to your vehicle’s roof.
Public Lands and National Forest Permits
An alternative path is cutting a tree on public lands managed by federal agencies, offering a more rugged experience. Harvesting a tree from areas like a U.S. Forest Service (USFS) National Forest or a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area requires securing a specific, low-cost permit beforehand. These permits, typically costing between $5 and $20, are often available online through the agency’s website or at a local ranger district office.
The permit includes strict rules that vary by location, designed to promote forest health and management. Most permits specify a maximum trunk diameter, often six inches, and require the remaining stump to be cut low to the ground (usually four to six inches in height). Cutting is only allowed within designated areas and is prohibited in campgrounds, near water bodies, or along main roads. The USFS or BLM provides a map detailing the approved cutting boundaries and may restrict the harvesting of certain tree species. Before traveling to the remote area, the permit must be in hand, and users should confirm any temporary road closures or fire warnings that could affect access.
Practical Cutting and Transport Logistics
Regardless of the location, a handsaw is the preferred and often required tool for felling the tree, as chainsaws are prohibited in most places. Bringing a measuring tape is advisable to confirm the tree’s height before cutting, ensuring it meets any restrictions or fits inside your home. Once the tree is selected, cut the trunk as close to the ground as possible, maintaining a straight, level cut.
After the tree is down, a tarp or sled is useful for dragging it out of the field, protecting the needles and branches from damage. For vehicle transport, secure the tree tightly to a roof rack or directly to the roof using strong rope or ratchet straps. The trunk end of the tree should always face the front of the vehicle to minimize wind resistance, which can shear off branches or loosen the load at highway speeds. Bringing warm clothing, water, and emergency supplies is prudent, especially when venturing into remote forest areas where cellular service may be unreliable.