Dakota Prairie Grasslands

This permit allows you to cut a Christmas Tree within the Dakota Prairie Grasslands! Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one.   Cutting areas include the Denbigh Experimental Forest. Excluded areas are all portions of the Grand and Cedar River National Grassland, the Little Missouri National Grassland, and the Sheyenne National Grassland. Small pines can be hard to find in the Dakota Prairie Grasslands! Please be sure to read and agree to all the tips and guidelines when selecting your tree. Tree Height: 12 feet maximum 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. Cut only in designated cutting areas as identified on the provided map, "Denbigh Experimental Forest - Cutting Area Map" When cutting in the Denbigh Experimental Forest, use Forest Roads 901, 903, and 905 for access. Do not cut trees visible from major roads, trailheads, or in other well-used areas. Do not cut on private land. Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark. If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage. 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. Tools you might want to consider bringing with you include a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; handsaw to cut your tree; 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. Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them. 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. Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back. 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 because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads. Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds. Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark. Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. 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. We don't recommend bringing your pets but, if you do, they must be on a leash.