Christmas tree permits are available from the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests.
     Permits cost $5 apiece and are available from district offices in Tonasket and Winthrop, the Okanogan Valley office in Okanogan and forest headquarters in Wenatchee.
     A permit allows the holder to cut a tree up to 15 feet tall or dig a live transplant tree, according to a Forest Service announcement.
     Each permit is for one Christmas tree, and only two permits will be issued per household, say forest officials. Permits are not refundable and may not be re-used.
     Instructions, tree care and transportation tips are given when purchasing a permit. Permits may be purchased in person or by mail, according to the announcement.
     Christmas tree hunters are reminded to remove the entire tree, not just the top, and to leave no more than a six-inch stump.
     When tree hunters are parked at a trailhead, Christmas tree permits may be placed on the driver’s side dashboard in lieu of a Northwest forest pass, say forest officials.
     Christmas tree permits do not allow parking in a sno-park. A valid state sno-park permit must be displayed on the windshield when parking at sno-parks.
     Permits also are available at Okanogan Chevron, Conconully General Store, The Junction in Tonasket and Prince’s Center, Oroville. Additional vendors may be added in the Methow Valley.
     Forest officials advise tree hunters to:
     - Notify someone of location and expected return time. Let the person know when you return.
     - Dress for the worst conditions.
     - Check out avalanche hazard before leaving home.
     - Be familiar with the area to be visited.
     - Take along extra clothing, food and tools.
     - Leave early in the day in order to return before dark.
     - Be prepared for all types of weather.
     Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended, say forest officials.
     More information is available from forest offices in Okanogan, Winthrop, Twisp, Chelan, Cle Elum, Entiat, Naches, Wenatchee and Leavenworth.