The do’s and don’ts of cutting down your own Montana Christmas tree.

In case you didn't check your calendar, Thanksgiving is barely over a week away and that means that, even by the most stringent standards, it is time to get the Holiday decorations up.  Of course, the centerpiece of most home holiday décor is the Christmas tree and one of the things that makes Montana great is the opportunity to drive a few miles out of town to harvest your own.  We talked with local Forester and recreation enthusiast Jocelyn Dodge about some of the things you'll need to do if you want to go out and get your own tree.

"Christmas is just around the corner and what a great time for a family outing to cut your own Christmas tree from most areas on the forest," Dodge commented while adding that you'll need a permit.  Don't worry.  They're easy to get and really inexpensive. "Five-dollar permits are available at any ranger district office or online at recreation.gov,' she told us while adding that "free permits are available for fourth-graders as part of the Every Kid Outdoors program."

Of course, fall in Montana means that conditions can change quickly, and Dodge tells us that preparation can be key.  "Be aware of changing road conditions when driving on forest roads and have an emergency kit with you including a shovel, water, blanket, food, and a bag of cat litter in case you get stuck," she said.

For more information, contact the Butte Ranger District at (406) 494-2147.