Joy of Christmas

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest (GMUG) is proposing a fee increase for Christmas tree permits that are sold.

“We have worked hard to keep this increase to a minimum, to cover the administrative costs and still allow a family to cut their own tree from the forest” remarked Charlie Richmond forest supervisor.

“However, we are finding the need to increase the permit fees this year to be in line with what the White River National Forest and the BLM are charging for permits.”

As proposed, Christmas tree permits on the GMUG would increase from $8.00 to $10.00 per tree beginning this November.

Authorized under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, 95% of the receipts collected from the permits will be retained locally and used to cover some of the expenses of administering the Christmas Tree program.

The GMUG is requesting public comment on this proposed fee increase.