HILL CITY, S.D. – Tree tags are available from now until Christmas Eve allowing people to cut down their own tree from the Black Hills National Forest.
According to Scott Jacobson, public affairs officer for the Black Hills National Forest, people can get tree tags from all U.S. Forest Service offices in Western South Dakota for spruce, juniper, and ponderosa pine, from now until Christmas Eve,
For parents and guardians looking for ways to involve kids, the Forest Service offers the “Every Kid Outdoors” initiative as part of the Christmas season, where fourth graders are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit.
Jacobson said to avoid cutting trees at camp grounds, picnic areas and along the roads. The forest service provides map and tree removal directions.
He added that for those wanting a traditional spruce tree for decorating, they can be found on north facing slopes in the higher elevations.
