Christmas tree permits in Prescott National Forest to be available Oct. 19

PHOENIX — Now that the number of days that hit triple-digit temperatures are dwindling, it’s time to start looking toward the holiday season.

OK, it still might be a bit soon to purchase eggnog or hang a stocking, but it’s not too early to start the process of acquiring a permit for a real Christmas tree.

The Prescott National Forest in a press release Thursday announced it would start selling 600 Christmas tree permits on Oct. 19.

Permits are $20 and can be purchased using a credit card by calling the Bradshaw/Chino Valley Ranger District at (928) 443-8000 or the supervisor’s office at (928) 777-2200.

Christmas tree permits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis and are for personal use only.

Those who purchase a permit may cut a tree up to 10 feet tall within a designated area between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24, according to the release.

The designated area and additional cutting instructions will be included in the permit that will be mailed to customers within two weeks.

The Prescott National Forest is also offering up to 100 free Christmas tree permits for 4th-grade students who have a valid “Every Kid Outdoors” pass or voucher that can be obtained online by completing an adventure diary.

Forest officials recommend cutting the Christmas tree early in the season before winter weather arrives in the higher elevations.

They say trees can stay fresh for quite some time if cared for properly.

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