When the tree starts to fall ... where the bar touches the bark will be the center of the notch. Before cutting, lay out the notch by marking it with chalk or scoring the bark with the chainsaw.

By using these permits to cut a Christmas tree, you can help thin out densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. The U.S. Forest Service states these trees are "the perfect size for a ...

Look for a reasonably healthy-looking tree—you don’t want one that’s already dried out or has lost most of its needles. Trim half an inch from the bottom of the trunk, and make sure the cut ...

so be sure to check out the forest's rules online before cutting your tree. It's important to remember harvest is prohibited around campgrounds and within 50 feet of trails and paved roads.