South Lake Tahoe, Calif. – December 7, 2023
As the holiday season kicks into high gear, the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) is reminding the public about crucial rules when venturing into the wilderness to cut down their Christmas trees. While permits are issued with explicit instructions, it appears that not all tree hunters are abiding by the guidelines, prompting forest officials to issue a stern reminder.
The paramount rule, emphasized by LTBMU, is the necessity of obtaining a $10 permit directly from the Forest Service. Permit holders also receive a map highlighting the ONLY permissible areas for tree cutting. This crucial information is based on surveys conducted by tree experts who identify suitable locations for cutting while safeguarding more sensitive areas. Fortunately, there are an ample number of permits available this year in the picturesque Lake Tahoe Basin.
One alarming trend that has caught the attention of forest officials is the partial cutting of trees in popular areas. This practice leaves behind debris that accumulates on the forest floor, posing a significant fire risk during the upcoming summer months. Furthermore, stumps left behind compromise the safety of winter recreation enthusiasts navigating the forest.
A crucial piece of advice from the Forest Service urges tree hunters to commit to the whole tree when making their selection. In instances where a tree is too tall or larger than required, it’s imperative to choose a different one. Even if the entire tree won’t be used, the Forest Service encourages taking it along, as there are numerous creative uses for the trimmings, such as garlands, wreaths, and other festive decorations.
Strict adherence to the provided maps is stressed, as cutting in unauthorized areas, especially on private property, is strictly prohibited. A recent incident highlighted the consequences of disregarding these boundaries when an individual intruded into a clearly marked yard, leaving behind a mutilated Silver Tip tree.
For those seeking more information on obtaining a permit, the Forest Service directs them to visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ltbmu/passes-permits/forestproducts/?cid=stelprdb5337696. Importantly, officials hint that this might be the last year for tree permits in the Lake Tahoe Basin for a few years, contingent on the growth observed before the next holiday season. As the forest echoes with the sound of saws and the scent of fresh pine, the U.S. Forest Service stands vigilant, urging responsible and respectful tree harvesting for a joyous and fire-safe holiday season in Lake Tahoe.
