The Christmas Tree Harvest 2017 tree cutting program is scheduled to begin Nov. 23 and go through Dec. 26, here at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

Individuals wanting a live tree for the holidays this year have the opportunity to harvest one for free, and also support the forestry program too.

“Through the Christmas Tree Harvest program, areas of the forests that are too dense can become thinned by providing a free live tree to service members, retired military, and civilians for the holidays,” said Colette Brandt, JBER natural resource manager and biological scientist.

Community members wanting to participate in the harvest must register at the iSportsman website https://jber.isportsman.net/Christmas.aspx.

“Authorizations are done during normal business hours and may take one or two business days depending on the volume of requests,” Brandt said. “An email confirmation will be sent when the authorization is completed.”

Once a permit is activated, the individual must sign in and sign out for the tree-cutting, just like any other recreational activity on base.

“When attempting to sign-in, you will only be allowed to see areas that are currently open and available.” Brandt said.

There are three designated areas that will be open this year. These include multiple training areas. Maps will be updated regularly.

To manage JBER’s natural resources as effectively as possible each tree must be indicated as harvested at the time of signing out.

The person whose name appears on the iSportsman permit must be the one present at the time of the tree harvest.

“This is a unique permit compared to others offered,” Brandt said. “All family members and guests of the iSportsman ID/permit holder are permitted to be present for the purposes of the tree cutting without needing separate passes.”

As a safety precaution, keep the roadways clear and be aware of the dangers associated with running a chainsaw and cutting down a tree.

Christmas tree harvest permits will not be issued after noon on Dec. 22 and all permits will expire Dec. 26. 

For information regarding permit conditions, open areas, printable maps and other relevant data visit https://jber.isportsman.net/Christmas.aspx.