Olympic National Forest will kick off the holiday season Monday by making Christmas tree cutting permits available.
Tree cutting permits cost $5 and may be purchased in Quilcene, Forks, Hoodsport, Olympia or through the mail.
Only one tree is allowed per household and permits are valid for specified areas. Maps and information will be provided with permits.
Forest Supervisor Dale Hom said Friday that Douglas fir is the most abundant and popular Christmas tree species found in the forest.
Pacific silver fir may be found along ridge tops at higher elevations, but accessibility depends on snow and road conditions, he said.
Getting trees early could allow better access to higher elevations and more trees, Hom said.
With fewer newly planted areas, finding a Christmas tree is getting more difficult, he said.
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