The Bureau of Land Management is now offering permits to cut Christmas trees for personal use in Colorado. Trees are available only in specific areas of public lands, so be sure to take a map showing where you can cut trees from a local field office or online … and check it twice.

The cost for each permit is $8 to $10, and different types of trees are available. Permits can be purchased either online or at most BLM field offices. If you want to call ahead to check when helpers are in the workshop, you can find contact info on the BLM website: www.blm.gov/office/colorado-state-office.

The BLM suggests bringing a handsaw, eye protection, rope or twine, extra food, water and blankets. It’s also a good idea to have tire chains, a shovel and emergency supplies just in case. And be sure to use a map or a device with GPS to make sure you are cutting a tree in an area where it’s allowed.

Remember to attach a haul tag to your tree when you take it from BLM lands. After the holidays, please dispose of your tree properly. Many communities have compost collection sites for Christmas trees.