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Public input sought on Christmas tree permits FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Aug. 24, 2018, For Immediate Release –
The Coconino National Forest is seeking public input over the next 14 days on a proposal to issue public permits to harvest Christmas trees
in the Flagstaff Ranger District. The Flagstaff RD is proposing to include in its Christmas tree permit program the
removal of Pinon and Juniper trees for use as Christmas trees. Because of high demand, there will be 200 Christmas tree permits available to the public for 2018. The decision is expected to be documented in a Categorical Exclusion under Forest Service Handbook
1909.5 section 32.12(8c).
A14-days comment period starts
Aug. 24 and ends Sept. 6 for the public to address concerns regarding this project’s proposed action. Comments received in response to this solicitation, including names and addresses of those who comment,
will be part of the public record for this proposed project. The Christmas tree permit will allow the harvest of one Pinon or Juniper tree per household, between approximately Nov. 16 and Dec.
22. The maximum diameter of the tree to be cut shall not exceed 6 inches in diameter at the base of the tree and shall not exceed 10 feet in height. When cutting the
tree, it is required that the tree is severed from the stump, below the lowest branch and shall not have a remaining stump height greater than 6 inches above the ground.
The removal of the described trees in the Christmas tree permit program areas will improve the health of the forest.
There are two designated Christmas tree cutting areas within the Flagstaff Ranger District. A map will be provided with each permit.
The northern Christmas tree cutting area’s east and west boundaries are U.S. Highway 89 and state Route 180, the northern boundary is the same as the far north edge of the Coconino National Forest. The southern boundary is Forest Roads 418, 419, 773, 9003R
and 523. Permittees are required to abide by all U.S. Forest Service rules and regulations while operating vehicles on its roads. The permittee
can only travel off road in accordance to the permit guidance which follows USFS regulations. For questions about the project call (928) 214-2424. If you have comments, concerns or specific recommendations on this project please submit your comments to:
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Attachment:
COC-NR-8-17-18-FRDChristmasTreesOpinion.pdf
Description: COC-NR-8-17-18-FRDChristmasTreesOpinion.pdf
