As they’ve done for many years, people can cut their own Christmas trees on the Tongass National Forest without needing a permit, the U.S. Forest Service announced.

Wrangell District Ranger Tory Houser said the tradition is an easy way for residents to get outside together.

“We’re fortunate that there are just so many trees to choose from,” Houser said. “And they replenish quickly here, so there’s no danger of running out anytime soon.”

Each household is allowed to take one tree per year for personal use. The tree cannot be sold, traded or used in any kind of commercial deal.

There are no rules on selection of tree species, but the Forest Service asks people to follow several guidelines to protect wildlife and recreation areas.

Trees may not be cut in developed Forest Service recreation sites. Cutting is also not allowed within 330 feet of a bald eagle nest, which is often found near water. Trees may not be taken within 100 feet of a salmon stream or a road.

“It helps to have an idea of where you want to get your tree from before you go,” Houser said.

Trees should be smaller than seven inches in diameter at the stump, and people are asked to cut as close to the ground as possible. The Forest Service warns people not to cut the top off a larger tree and not to abandon a cut tree in search of one that looks better.

Drivers are asked to keep vehicles on established roads and to avoid harvesting trees in muskeg, where new growth is slow and difficult.

“Right now, the snow hasn’t moved down, so there are plenty of accessible places,” Houser said, adding that she believes some residents have favorite spots. She said she likes to look for trees around Pats Road.

Households are responsible for deciding how to dispose of their trees after the holidays. Houser said there is currently no local program to reuse Christmas trees as fish habitat, which some communities in the Lower 48 have adopted.