THUNDER BAY – Northern Ontario residents can harvest their own Christmas tree from Crown land, that is the word from the Ministry of Natural Resources. MNR states, “Natural Christmas trees have a smaller ecological footprint than
artificial trees do. They are a sustainable natural product”.
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) encourages people to keep a few basic rules in mind if you choose to cut your own Christmas tree:
- You don’t need a permit if you are cutting one Christmas tree for yourself. Permits are required if people plan to sell the trees.
- Ensure that the tree you choose is on Crown land. If you are on private land, you have to have the owner’s permission prior to cutting the tree. If you have any questions as to land ownership, please contact your local MNR office.
- If you need help finding Crown land in your area, please contact your local MNR office. We will help you determine a Crown land area that is suitable for harvesting a Christmas tree.
- Good tree choices include spruce, balsam fir and pine.
- Ensure the size of the tree you choose matches your needs – Don’t harvest a large tree only to use the top portion! There are many sizes and types of trees to choose from.
- If trimming needs to be done, make sure you leave all branches and other trimmed ends in the bush.
- Be aware and be safe, especially near power lines or dams.
In addition to cutting your own tree on Crown land, you may also choose to go to a local Christmas tree farm to pick a pre-cut tree or to cut your own. Getting a natural Christmas tree helps support Ontario tree growers and
the Ontario economy. Christmas tree growing is part of a healthy northern and rural economy.