Disregard for Christmas Tree cutting rules evident around Lake Tahoe Basin

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) wants the public to know some very important rules when cutting down trees for their Christmas holiday. Even though tree permit holders are given instructions when they purchase the permit, it has become evident to forest officials that they aren't always being followed.

The most important rule is to obtain a $10 permit from the Forest Service and get a map that shows you the ONLY allowable areas. Their tree experts survey the forest and know which areas can be cut, and don't allow cutting in more sensitive areas. There are plenty of permits available this year in the Lake Tahoe Basin.

Many trees are only being partially cut in some of the popular cutting areas, and this is not good at all! Debris left behind is fuel loading on the forest floor and becomes a fire risk next summer. Stumps left are not safe for those using the forest for winter recreation.

When selecting and cutting a tree, you must take the WHOLE tree. If the tree is too tall to fit in your vehicle, or larger than you need, pick a different tree. If you don't plan to use the entire tree, still take it with you as there are many uses - use trimmings as garland, wreaths, or other fun holiday decor/crafts.

Follow the provided maps as no other areas can be cut, especially private property. One person recently entered a clearly marked yard and cut the top few feet off of a Silver Tip, leaving the bottom 20 feet of a butchered tree for the homeowners.

For more information on obtaining a permit, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ltbmu/passes-permits/forestproducts/?cid=stelprdb5337696. This may be the last year in the Lake Tahoe Basin for tree permits for a few years, depending on growth before next year.