Supply chain problems and sub-zero temperatures notwithstanding, Alaskans can cut their own Christmas trees on state land.
Households are limited to one tree, and no permit or fee is required. Maps and information on Christmas tree harvesting in Southcentral and Interior Alaska – as well as information about how to care for your fresh-cut tree – are available at http://dnr.alaska.gov/commis/pic/christmastree.htm.
From the Division of Forestry, here are some guidelines for safe, legal cutting of Christmas trees on state public lands:
- Properly identify who owns the land where you intend to cut your tree. If you have any questions on land ownership, call the nearest Division of Forestry office.
- Cutting trees in state parks, experimental forests and commercial timber sales is prohibited.
- Maximum tree height is 15 feet.
- Christmas trees cut on state land are for personal use only and may not be sold.
- The division does not maintain forest roads and anyone traveling on them should be properly equipped to do so. Have warm clothing and appropriate equipment incase you get stuck, including tire chains, shovel and tow strap.
- Cut trees as low and close to the ground as possible.
- Do not litter, and be courteous to other tree cutters and residents. For a directory of area forestry offices around the state, including addresses and phone numbers, go to http://forestry.alaska.gov. Answers to additional questions are available at the Department of Natural Resource’s Public Information Centers in Anchorage (907- 269-8400) or Fairbanks (907-451-2705).
