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Land Between the Lakes Offers Free Cedar Christmas Trees

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Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is offering free cedar Christmas tree permits this year. Information including maps and cutting guidelines will be available November 25 through December 4 on the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area website by visiting www.landbetweenthelakes.us/reservations. 
 
Permits can only be obtained online and entitle a family to cut one cedar tree between November 25 and December 24. Cedar trees may be cut anywhere in Land Between the Lakes except within sight of US Highway 68/Kentucky Route 80; Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway; Nature Watch areas; campgrounds; cemeteries; timber sale areas, facilities including the Elk and Bison Prairie and other mowed areas. “Taking the family out into the woods to look for the perfect Christmas tree is a great holiday tradition. Check along roadsides or within old forest openings to find your tree,” suggested Yvonne Antes, silviculturist at Land Between the Lakes. “The cedar tree program also helps Land Between the Lakes maintain open lands and promote diverse wildlife habitat.”
 
Trees must be cedar, less than 10 feet tall and stumps must be less than 4 inches tall. Chainsaws may be used, however, the use of trucks, winches, tractors or other heavy equipment is prohibited. Cutting rules and regulations can be found on the reservations page.
 
Whether families cut or purchase a live tree, safety guidelines for choosing and using a cut tree in the home should be followed. Choose a fresh tree. If needles fall off easily, the tree is dry and can easily catch on fire; 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 daily; place the tree away from heat sources such as heating vents, wood stoves, or open flames; decorative lights should be UL approved and in good condition; never leave tree lights on while asleep or away from home; using LED lights saves energy. Discard the tree when it shows signs of drying, such as brown or yellow coloration and excessive needle dropping.
 
While most of Land Between the Lakes was unaffected by tornado damage, there are significant areas of damaged timber. Care needs to be taken when recreating in and around these areas. Beware of loose overhead limbs as well as logging operations.