Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Welcome to your Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Christmas tree adventure! Your permit opens the door to a wonderful holiday tradition, and we are happy to help you make memories that will last a lifetime. To keep your trip safe and fun, please look over our guidelines before you head out. This permit allows you to cut one Christmas tree in designated areas of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Please read and follow all tree-selection guidelines before you begin. Do not cut trees on: - Private, State, or Tribal land - Developed recreation sites (i.e. Campgrounds, Day Use Areas, Trailheads, along trails) - Administrative sites (Forest Service facilities) - Active timber sales as designated as "No Cut areas" on Map You must verify your location before cutting any tree. PRINT AND BRING YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE PERMIT WITH YOU - You must have a valid permit in your possession before you cut your tree. be sure to place the tag on the tree as soon as it is cut. Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit's guidelines. Tree Height: 10 feet maximum Tree Diameter: 5 inches measured 4 1/2 feet from the ground Stump height: 6 inches maximum Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. Identifying The Tree You've Selected: Blue Spruce: (Leaf) Evergreen, stiff 3/4 to 1 1/4 inch long, yellow-green to bluish or white. Needles are very stiff and sharp. Generally found above 8,000' elevation in AZ. Douglas Fir: (Leaf) Evergreen, single needles that lack woody pegs or suction cups. Needles are yellow-green to blue-green, 3/4 to 1 1/4 inch long, very fragrant. Needle tips are blunt or slightly rounded. Often found on north facing slopes in canyons. Ponderosa Pine: (Leaf) Evergreen, 5 to 10 inches long, with three, yellow-green needles per bundle. Most common tree along the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains. White Fir: (Leaf) Flattened needles, silvery blue-green both above and below, 2 to 3 inches long, blunt at the tip, extending at right angles from the twig, often curing upwards. Often mistaken for a Blue Spruce but needles are softer. generally found above 7,000' elevation. Cut only on National Forest Lands in areas indicated on the map. DO NOT cut on White Mountain Apache or San Carlos Apache Tribal Lands. Those found cutting on WMAT or SCAT lands will receive citations from tribal authorities. DO NOT cut in Campgrounds, Day Use areas, or other developed recreation areas DO NOT cut on private land, administrative Forest Service facility sites,  or in wilderness areas DO NOT cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees. Tools to bring with you include a handsaw, measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; gloves to protect your hands; boots to protect your feet; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it's cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle. Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow. Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark. Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them or bring them home to add to your festive holiday decor. If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap your tree snug in a tarp or netting before hitting the highway—keep those jolly needles where they belong! Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water. If storing your tree outside for a few days before putting it in the house, keep it in an area protected from the wind, such as the north or east side of your house or under a shaded tree. Before you leave home, be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the tree in your home (height and width), and measure the space in your vehicle where you will be transporting the tree. YOU MUST PRINT AND BRING YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE PERMIT WITH YOU. Don't forget to bring a saw! Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip. Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS as cell service is spotty Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back. Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds. Wear warm boots or other sturdy, close-toed shoes.  Bring extra socks and shoes incase those you are wearing get saturated Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Bring a spare key and give it to someone else in your party. Don’t get locked out of your car! Park in areas so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates. Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark. We don't recommend bringing your pets but, if you do, they must be on a leash.