Wander into the Black Hills National Forest and cut your own Christmas tree for this holiday season. What better way to create lasting memories with family and loved ones than picking out a tree together and taking it home.
To cut down a tree, you must first obtain a permit. Christmas Tree Permits are available until Christmas Eve. As you wander through the 12 million acres of the Black Hills National Forest, you will see Ponderosa Pine, Spruce and Juniper trees. A permit is required for each tree that is cut down and each permit costs $10. Fourth graders get a free tag as long as there is a fourth-grade voucher brought in at the time of purchase at Forest Service Offices only. The link below will take you to the U.S. Forest Service website where you can purchase your permit online and find out more information.
Northern Hills Ranger District
2014 North Main Street
Spearfish, SD 57783
Phone: 605-642-4622
Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Each Permit is accompanied by a handout with guidance about appropriate tree removal. The maximum allowable height to cut trees is 20 feet and that you leave no more than six inches of stump when cutting it down. The cut, unused branches must be laid flat on the ground. The permit tag purchased must be attached to the tree before it is removed. Once you have arrived at home, place your tree in water as soon as possible to keep your tree and it’s needles fresh!
From all of us in Spearfish – have a wonderful holiday season!
