Siuslaw National Forest

Christmas Tree Permits for Sale

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Contact:
541/750-7194, Bob Nowak
541/750-7075, Joni Quarnstrom

November 24, 2008

Corvallis, OR -- The Siuslaw National Forest will begin selling Christmas tree permits November 24. Permits cost $5.00 each, which allows the permit holder to cut one tree for personal use.

It’s a tradition for some families to seek out their perfect Christmas tree on national forest lands according to Barnie Gyant, Siuslaw Forest Supervisor.

While the Siuslaw National Forest promotes this activity by selling the annual permits, people need to be aware that finding the perfect tree may not be as easy as in past years.

Most trees on this Forest are fast growing trees which render them less than ideal Christmas trees. In addition, areas with small trees are becoming less available due to fewer young tree plantations and some area closures, including Marys Peak.

Douglas fir and Sitka Spruce are the most common tree species available on the Siuslaw National Forest. Highly sought after Noble firs, and other high elevation “true firs”, are not available on the Siuslaw National Forest.

However, Noble firs and other high elevation “true firs” can be found in the Willamette National Forest, which is also offering Christmas tree permits. The closest location to the Corvallis area to purchase a permit for the Willamette National Forest is at the Sweet Home Ranger District and local vendors in Sweet Home and Foster, OR.

Christmas Tree Permits

Finding a tree may turn into an all day outing, so be prepared. Travel on forest roads during the winter is unpredictable. It is advisable to let friends or family know where you are headed and when you anticipate returning. Tree cutters should bring a handsaw or axe as well as winter clothing and safety equipment. Tire chains and shovel are recommended, as is extra food, drinking water, blankets, a flashlight, first aid kit, and survival gear.

Before you cut your tree, remember the following common-sense rules: You must take the entire tree; you cannot take the top off of a larger tree. After you cut your tree, you must immediately attach your permit. You cannot later discard the tree for another you find more desirable.

Once you’ve selected your tree, saw or chop it within six inches to the ground and leave no limbs attached to the stump. To keep the tree from drying out, leave it out side until you are ready to put it in a stand, then cut the trunk at an angle and keep it in plenty of water.

For current road and snow conditions, please contact the nearest ranger station where you plan to look for your tree.

Siuslaw National Forest Christmas tree permits are valid only on national forest lands within the Siuslaw National Forest.

Permits can be purchased at the following locations:

Hebo Ranger District
31525 Hwy. 22
Hebo, OR
503-392-3161
(Mon–Fri, 8:00–4:30)

Central Coast Ranger District (Waldport)
1049 SW Pacific Hwy
Waldport, OR
541-563-3211
(Mon–Fri, 8:00-4:00)

Central Coast Ranger District (Florence)
4480 Hwy 101
Florence, OR
541-902-6946
(Mon–Fri, 8:00–4:30)

Siuslaw Forest Headquarters
4077 Research Way
Corvallis, OR
541-750-7000
(Mon–Fri, 8:00 – 4:30)

(Willamette National Forest)
Sweet Home Ranger District
4431 Highway 20
Sweet Home, OR
541-367-5168
(Mon-Fri, 8 – 4:30)

(near Willamette National Forest)
Lakeside Grocery and Deli
5401 Highway 20
Foster, OR
541-367-3397
(Normal Business Hours)

(near Willamette National Forest)
Midway Grocer
3239 Highway 20
Sweet Home, OR
541-367-2023
(Normal Business Hours)

For more information contact the Siuslaw National Forest at (541) 750-7000 or visit our website at www.fs.fed.us/r6/siuslaw.

USDA Forest Service, Siuslaw National Forest
Last modified Monday, November 24 2008