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Free Cedar Christmas Trees Offered at LBL
GOLDEN POND, KY - Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area is again offering Christmas tree permits beginning December 1 for visitors to cut cedar trees.
The permit, valid December 1-24, entitles a family to cut one cedar tree at no charge. Permits, maps, and cutting guidelines may be obtained from the Golden Pond Visitor Center daily, 9am-5pm, or the LBL Administrative Office, 8am-4:30pm, Monday-Friday.
"Taking the family out searching for the perfect Christmas tree is a great holiday tradition," says LBL Forester Dennis Wilson. "Cedar trees are usually found along roadsides or within old forest openings." The cedar tree program assists in promoting wildlife habitat diversity by maintaining open lands at LBL.
Cedar trees may be cut anywhere in LBL except areas within sight of U.S. Highway 68 or The Trace, cemeteries, the Nature Watch Demonstration Areas, campgrounds, lawns or other mowed areas.
Whether families cut or purchase a tree, they should follow these safety guidelines when using a cut tree in their home at Christmas.
- Choose a fresh tree. If the needles are brown and fall off easily, the tree is dry and can easily catch on fire.
- When setting up your tree, cut the base off two inches above the original cut to help the tree absorb more water.
- Place the tree in a stable, tip-proof container and water it daily.
- Place the tree away from heat sources such as heating vents or wood stoves.
- Be sure decorative lights are UL approved and in good condition. Never leave tree lights on while you are asleep or away from home.
- Discard the tree when it begins to show signs of drying, such as brown or yellow color, and excessive needle dropping.
Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with "Friends of LBL", to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education. LBL information and maps are available on our website at www.lbl.org or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000. We encourage visitors to review our website each season, and throughout the season, for our Calendar of Events, updates on programs and policies, and temporary trail and road closures. You can find out more about "Friends of LBL" at www.friendsoflbl.org.
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Media Contact: 270-924-2000
(November 17, 2009)