Residents can cut their own Christmas Trees

RAPID CITY, S.D. — It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and with the help of the Black Hills National Forest, residents can get a head start on adorning their Christmas trees for the upcoming holiday season.

Starting now through December 24, Christmas tree permits are available, providing families the unique opportunity to cut their own trees. For the first time, permits can be purchased online here and can also be purchased at local vendors throughout the western region. Officers say it is a great way to create memories with the family.

“Cutting your own Christmas tree is a great American tradition where American families can venture on to national forest on their own and explore, spend some time in nature. Get some fresh air and harvest their own Christmas tree,” said Mystic Ranger District Officer Samuel Ainsley.

This year all fourth and fifth graders are eligible to receive a free Christmas tree through the Every Kid Outdoors Program. Stipulations for tree cutting are trees are not to exceed 20 feet and stumps are to be left six inches in height and six inches in diameter. And as a reminder, trees should be disposed of in a yard waste disposal.