Now that Thanksgiving and opening day are behind us and the holiday season is underway, it’s time to start thinking about putting up those Christmas trees.

There are many great local options to pick up a tree, but for those feeling a bit more adventurous or strapped for cash this year, cutting down a tree might be the way to go.

The first step is purchasing a permit through the Forest Service for designated areas. The cost is $10 per permit with a limit of five permits per person. You can either purchase a permit online or in person at a local BLM office.

Christmas tree cutting is allowed in many areas of the national forest except in wilderness areas, commercial timber sales, recreation and ski areas, administrative areas, and other restricted places. Maps are available online and at offices where permits are sold.

It’s a good idea to measure the area where the Christmas Tree will be placed in the home to know what size tree to look for and have the appropriate tools, (a small hand saw or camp saw) before heading out into the forest.

Permits must be attached to the tree prior to cutting and must be left on the tree until it arrives at its destination. Keep in mind, that cut trees are for personal use only and may not be resold.

Once the logistics are taken care of, the most important thing is to be careful, slow down, enjoy being in nature with friends and family, and find joy in the season.

Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines when selecting your tree. For more about cutting trees in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests, to fs.usda.gov/detail/mbr/passes-permits/forestproducts/?cid=fswdev3_008630.