PENDLETON — Christmas tree permits for the Umatilla National Forest are available to purchase at forest offices, several local businesses and now online through recreation.gov, according to a press release.

Last year, the Umatilla National Forest was one of 13 national forests that offered Christmas tree permits online through a pilot program. This year, all national forests are selling Christmas tree permits online via recreation.gov as an added convenience for the public and alternative to in-person interactions. Christmas tree permits purchased online must be printed to be valid and can only be used on Umatilla National Forest lands, as specified on the permit. Christmas tree permits cost $5 each and are limited to one per household. An additional $2.50 fee will be charged for permits purchased through recreation.gov.

Traditional Christmas tree permits are still available through Umatilla National Forest offices and several local businesses. All Umatilla National Forest offices are still offering virtual services to the public. Individuals interested in purchasing a Christmas tree permit from the forest directly may call any national forest office or send an email to r6_umatilla_public_inquiries@fs.fed.us. A forest employee will assist individuals with procedures to receive the Christmas tree permit in the mail upon receipt of payment.