Harvest Your Holiday Tree In A Northern State Forest | Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds Wisconsinities that they can harvest a holiday tree from a northern state forest.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging Wisconsin residents to participate in sustainable holiday traditions by harvesting a holiday tree from one of the northern state forests. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 15: Life on Land, which aims to protect, restore, and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

Available Tree Species

• Balsam firs, known for their beautiful fragrance and dark green needles, are among the most sought-after species in the northern state forests.
• Various types of pines also find their way home with visitors.

Permits and Cost

People interested in harvesting a holiday tree can obtain permits onsite at each property’s headquarters. The average cost is $5 per tree. Additionally, fresh evergreen boughs may be harvested with a non-commercial forest products permit. This initiative supports Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, which promotes sustainable practices and encourages the efficient use of natural resources.

Harvesting Guidelines

Holiday tree cutting is not offered at state parks, southern state forests, and other DNR properties. However, many county forests and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest allow non-commercial harvest of holiday trees. It is important to contact the property where you plan to cut a holiday tree to ensure compliance with harvesting guidelines. This initiative contributes to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which emphasizes the importance of sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources in urban areas.

Quotes

“We know people enjoy our northern state forests throughout the year, and the opportunity to find that special holiday tree or bring home some fresh-scented evergreen boughs provides another great reason to visit these properties,” said Teague Prichard, DNR State Lands Specialist. “We’re pleased to welcome people who want to make the northern state forests part of their holiday tradition.”

Harvesting Regulations

Before heading into the woods with a saw and permit in hand, the DNR reminds visitors of the following regulations:

1. Harvesting is prohibited within 100 feet or visual distance of roads, trails, and water.
2. No harvesting is allowed from campgrounds or day use areas.
3. Trees must be cut at ground level with a maximum height of 30 feet.
4. The trees taken from state forests cannot be resold.

These regulations support Goal 14: Life Below Water and Goal 15: Life on Land, as they aim to protect terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems from unsustainable practices.

Quarantine Measures

It is essential to check the spongy moth quarantine map maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection to ensure that your tree is not transported out of the quarantined area. This measure aligns with Goal 15: Life on Land, which seeks to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species.

More Information

For more information about holiday tree cutting permits, visit the DNR’s Forest Products Permits webpage. By participating in sustainable holiday traditions, individuals can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and help create a more sustainable future for all.

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.