Permits will be available online from Friday of this week until Christmas Eve to cut down a cedar Christmas tree in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
A permit entitles a family to cut one cedar tree between November 26 and December 24. Cedar trees may be cut anywhere in Land Between the Lakes except anywhere within sight of US 68, the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, any cemetery, the nature watch areas, campgrounds, facilities including the Elk & Bison Prairie and other mowed areas.
Officials say trees must be cedar, less than 10 feet tall, and stumps must be less than four inches tall. Chainsaws may be used. Use of trucks, winches, tractors, or other heavy equipment is prohibited. Cutting rules and regulations can be found on the reservations page.
Silviculturist Yvonne Antes says, “Taking the family out into the woods to look for the perfect Christmas tree is a great holiday tradition. Check along roadsides or within old forest openings to find your tree. The cedar tree program also helps Land Between the Lakes maintain open lands and promote diverse wildlife habitat.”