Your permit allows you to cut Christmas trees on Helena - Lewis and Clark National Forest.

Make sure you cut your tree on the National Forest by checking a Helena - Lewis and Clark National Forest Visitor Map and follow road restrictions on the Motor Vehicle Use Map.

Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated recreation sites, previously thinned areas, or existing tree plantations.

Do not cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees.

Do not cut trees visible from major roads, within 150-feet of streams and creeks, or in other well-used areas.

Please post your permit on your dash.

Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit's guidelines. 

No cutting of 5 needle pines. (i.e. 5 needles in one cluster)

Tree Height: 12 feet maximum.

Stump height: 6 inches maximum. 

Take the whole tree. Cutting the tree top off is prohibited.

If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. 

Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them.

Before you leave home, be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the tree in your home (height and width), and measure the space in your vehicle where you will be transporting the tree.

Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect your return.

Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip.

Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads.

Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and wind.

Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Bring a spare key and give it to someone else in your party. Don’t get locked out of your car!

Park in areas so traffic can drive by safely and do not block gates.

Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. 

Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark.

Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark. 

If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage. 

Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucketof water. Replenish water.

If storing your tree outside for a few days before moving inside, keep it in an areaprotected from the wind.

Tools you might want to consider bringing with you include a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; handsaw to cut your tree; gloves to protect your hands; boots to protect your feet; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it's cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle.

Be aware of potential fire hazards in your house and keep them away from your tree. Place your tree in a location away from heat vents, fireplaces, and wood stoves.

Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow.