MCCALL, Idaho — Do you have your eyes on the holidays already? The Payette National Forest announced on Thursday they will start selling physical Christmas tree permits at Forest Service vendors and offices on Monday, Nov. 25. However, permits can also be purchased online starting now.
When purchasing a ticket online, make sure to confirm that you are buying a permit for the Payette National Forest, because permits for other forests are not valid. Permits purchased online must also be printed before going to cut down a tree.
Permits will be be sold for $10 per tree. Permits purchased online will have an additional $2.50 service fee applied.
Each permit is good for one tree, with a limit of three permits per family.
The Payette National Forest said in a press release "All purchasers are provided with information about where a Christmas tree may be harvested, restrictions and helpful tips. A Christmas Tree Permit is for personal use only and use of permits for commercial purposes is prohibited. Permits are non-refundable and the purchaser must be at least 18 years in age."
Forest officials said if heavy snowfall makes forest roads a safety concern for the public, they may be closed early to tree gathering. Officials also said to make sure you are fully prepared for winter travel and to check road conditions before heading out.
"National forests are full of beautiful landscapes that offer memorable experiences for all," said USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. "Experiences become memories that last through generations, and exploring a national forest to select a tree that becomes the centerpiece for the holiday season creates a connection between the forest and a family's story."
Payette National Forest officials have provided the following safety guidelines:
- Use the brochure with instructions provided.
- Practice winter survival and driving techniques.
- Bring the right tools, such as a saw and a shovel, so the tree can be cut to within 6" of the ground's surface.
- Take along emergency equipment, plenty of food and water, and try to use a 4-wheel drive vehicle if you are planning to travel in snow country.
- Always inform neighbors and family friends of the route you intend to take, include a map of your destination, and the time that you plan to be gone.
- Be prepared for the possibility of a long hike or snowmobile ride while searching for the perfect tree.
- According to Idaho state law, any vehicle carrying a load that extends more than 4 feet past the tailgate, must display a red or florescent orange flag tied on the end of the load to caution other drivers.
Payette National Forest Offices (open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
- Council Ranger District Office
- 2092 Highway 95, Council, ID
- 208-253-0100
- New Meadows Ranger District Office
- 3674 Highway 95, New Meadows, ID
- 208-347-0300
- Weiser Ranger District Office
- 851 E Ninth St., Weiser, ID
- 208-549-4200
- McCall Ranger District Office
- 102 West Lake St., McCall, ID
- 208-634-0400
Payette National Forest Vendors
- Weiser: Ridley's Food and Drug (208) 549-1332
- 1401 E. 6th Street, Weiser, ID
- Open: Everyday 7 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Weiser: Farmer's Supply Cooperative (208) 549-0654
- 622 E. Commercial St., Weiser, ID
- Open: Everyday 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Cambridge: Blake's Sinclair (208) 257-5000
- Corner of Hwy 95 and Hwy 71, Cambridge, ID
- Open: Everyday 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Council: Farmer's Supply Cooperative (208) 253-4266
- 2030 N. Highway 95, Council, ID
- Open: Everyday 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- McCall: Albertsons (208) 634-8166
- 132 E. Lake Street, McCall, ID
- Open: Everyday 6:00 a.m. -10 p.m.
- New Meadows: C & M Lumber (208) 347-2194
- 3625 Walker Ln, New Meadows, ID
- Open: Mon – Sat 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
