HELENA — Kids will still be sorting through their Halloween candy while their parents have their first chance to cut down their Christmas tree. Permits for tree-cutting in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest are available November 1, and cost just $5.
Cost isn't the only deciding factor. Folks create long-lasting traditions with their families while helping keep the forests safe.
Seasonal wildlands firefighter, Arizona Paschal has been doing it since she was a child.
"It reduces the risk of wildfire, promotes forest safety, and it’s just a fun tradition for you and your family," says Paschal.
Visitor and recreation maps are available online to make sure you are within the boundaries of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest.
There are some rules for those cutting down their trees:
- 12-foot-tall max height
- 6-inch max stump height
- take the whole tree, no topping
- Cut leftover branches from stump and scatter them
- Trees must be away from roads, popular recreation areas, and at least 150 feet from streams and creeks
