To better accommodate weekend visitors wishing to purchase a Christmas tree-cutting permit, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area headquarters will remain open for a limited number of hours this weekend.
The SNRA headquarters, located about eight miles north of Ketchum off of state Highway 75, will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15, and Sunday, Dec. 16.
Permits to cut Christmas trees on the SNRA as well as on the Ketchum Ranger District of the Sawtooth National Forest cost $5 for trees up to 10 feet tall and $10 for trees from 11 to 20 feet tall. There is a limit of one tree per family or organization.
Only lodgepole pine, Douglas fir and subalpine fir trees are available for cutting. Examples of trees that are available for cutting as Christmas trees can be seen at the SNRA headquarters.
Certain areas, including campgrounds, administrative sites, ski areas, summer home sites and organizational camps, are off limits for Christmas tree cutting. Permit buyers will receive a map of SNRA cutting areas and a tag to attach to their freshly cut tree.
Christmas tree cutting permits may be paid for by cash or check only.
Forest officials wish to remind people that local U.S. Forest Service roads are now closed as of Dec. 1. Depending on the location, it may be necessary to walk, snowshoe, cross-country ski or snowmobile in to access tree cutting areas.
Officials also wish to remind people to be well prepared when going into the forest to cut their tree. Weather conditions can change rapidly and with very little warning at this time of year. It is advisable to pack extra food and clothing and let someone know where you intend to go and when you plan to return prior to heading out.
