With the Christmas holiday a month away, a regional tradition has returned.
Officials with Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area have announced free cedar Christmas Tree permits — along with maps and cutting guidelines — are now available online at landbetweenthelakes.us/reservations.
The permit entitles a family to cut one cedar tree down between Black Friday and Christmas Eve, and they can be removed from anywhere in LBL except:
· Within sight of U.S. Highway 68/Ky. Route 80
· Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway
· Cemeteries
· Nature Watch Areas
· Campgrounds
· Timber sale areas
· Facilities, including the Elk & Bison Prairie
· And other mowed areas
According to Yvonne Antes, silvicutlurist for LBL, this great holiday tradition not only proves to be the perfect family tradition, but also promotes open land use, and the diversification of wildlife habitats.
Again, the trees must be cedar and less than 10 feet tall, and stumps left must be less than 4 inches tall.
Chainsaws may be used, but the use of trucks, winches, tractors, or other heavy equipment is prohibited.
# Choose a fresh tree. If needles fall off easily, the tree is dry and can easily catch on fire.
# When setting up your tree, cut the base off two inches above the original cut to help the tree absorb more water.
# Place the tree in a stable, tip-proof container and water it daily.
# Place the tree away from heat sources such as heating vents, wood stoves, or open flames.
# Be sure decorative lights are UL approved and in good condition.
# Never leave tree lights on while asleep or away from home. LED lights are a great way to save energy.
# Discard the tree when it begins to show signs of drying, such as brown or yellow coloration, or excessive needle dropping.
# And always choose one that’s a little full, but with a lot of sap.
