CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. – With Christmas just around the corner, permits remain available for families who want to cut their own tree on Mt. Taylor or other nearby public lands.
On the Cibola National Forest, Christmas tree permits are on sale for the Mt. Taylor, Magdalena and Mountainair ranger districts, including the Mt. Taylor Ranger District based in Grants.
The cutting season runs from Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, through Dec. 31.
Each permit is valid for one tree, with a limit of two trees per household. Prices are $10 for a tree up to 10 feet tall, $12 for up to 12 feet, and $15 for up to 15 feet (the maximum height allowed).
Permits can be purchased online at www.recreation.gov/treepermits by searching “Cibola National Forest Christmas Tree Permits,” or in person at the Cibola National Forest Supervisor’s Office and ranger district offices. Office hours are posted at www.fs.usda.gov/r03/cibola/ offices.
Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass may receive one free tree permit, though a $2.50 online reservation fee still applies.
Forest staff remind visitors to park only where allowed and note that regular day-use fees may still apply at some recreation sites.