USFS has permits to cut down Christmas trees in basin

The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit will begin the sale of holiday tree permits Nov. 7. Permits cost $10 each (cash or check only, no credit cards) with a limit of two permits per family, valid for cutting on or before Dec. 25.

Permit holders may choose from a variety of pine, fir or cedar in designated cutting areas and must abide by specific permit conditions for proper and responsible collection.

Permits will be available in two locations:

· On the South Shore, permits will be sold at the LTBMU Forest Supervisor’s office, 35 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe. This office is open Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm. For more information, call (530) 543.2694.

· On the North Shore, permits will be sold at the Incline Village Forest Service office, 855 Alder Ave., Incline Village, beginning Nov. 9. This office is open Wednesday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm. For more information, call (775) 831.0914. During winter weather driving conditions, call the Incline office to make sure it’s open.

The last day to purchase a permit at either office is Dec. 16.

Individuals purchasing permits will receive information to help them make the best selection, as well as maps designating the tree cutting areas. Permit holders should respect private property by not trespassing when entering or leaving designated National Forest cutting areas. Harvesting smaller diameter trees offers residents and visitors a traditional holiday experience while helping to thin the forest.