'Tis the season for a Christmas tree hunt

For generations, the Christmas tree has been a familiar symbol of the holiday season; and, for many Americans, this means a trip to the local Christmas tree lot down at the corner or to the parking lot of a super store.

This type of tree hunt, however, hasn't always been the norm; and for people who live in places like Sisters, there is a more "traditional" option.

With thousands of acres of National Forest surrounding Sisters, obtaining the annual Christmas tree can become the centerpiece for a memorable outdoor family event. The first step, however, is to obtain a Christmas tree permit from the National Forest Service or one of the other outlets where the tree permits are sold.

Although the celebration of the Christian tradition of Christmas can be traced to the fourth century, Christmas trees as we know them today did not appear until about the sixteenth century. The Christmas tree tradition is generally considered to have begun in northern Europe, with Germany most often cited as the point of origin.

It is generally understood that the Christmas tree has some non-Christian roots and has assimilated some vestiges of other religions and cultural practices. At various times in history - and from various ends of the cultural spectrum - the Christmas tree has either been denounced as a pagan ritual or denounced as a religious infringement on secular society.

Such differences of opinion notwithstanding, most people seem to regard the tree as a suitable and festive way to celebrate the season. Certainly, in an era where the use of artificial trees is skyrocketing, even the term "traditional" may have more than one meaning. Now that it's possible to order a fully assembled and pre-lit artificial tree without ever leaving one's home, any organic tree might be considered "traditional."

When the first settlers of European descent arrived in Central Oregon in the nineteenth century, however, obtaining a Christmas tree meant going out into the forest, cutting the perfect tree, and bringing it home to decorate. That was traditional then, and it still can be today.

Christmas tree permits cost $5 each, and up to five are permitted per household. The Northwest's Douglas fir tree is commonly considered the nation's Christmas tree; and, in fact, Northwest Douglas firs are shipped all over the world for use as Christmas trees.

Douglas firs are common in many areas near Sisters, as are many of the true fir species such as noble, white, Pacific silver, and grand firs. In the Sisters area, fir trees are most often found at slightly higher elevations outside of town.

Keep in mind that a Forest Service permit is valid only on Forest Service lands, so tree hunters must be certain that the selected tree is not on private land. If unsure, it's a good idea to have a Forest Service map that clearly shows forest boundaries. Other guidelines include selecting a tree that is no more than 12 feet tall, and it must be within 15 feet of another tree. If the tree is standing alone in an open space, find another tree.

Trees within 150 feet of state highways, picnic areas, campgrounds, or other developed sites should not be cut. Trees within 300 feet of streams and lakes are also off limits.

Complete copies of Christmas tree hunting guidelines and regulations can be obtained wherever tree permits are sold. Forest Service personnel will also provide guidance on areas where cutting is permitted and where to find particular tree species. The Sisters Ranger District office is located at the corner of Highway 20 and North Pine Street, on the west side of town. For further information call 541-549-7700.

Finally, be sure that your Christmas tree hunt is a safe one. Many of the most sought-after trees are at higher elevations where snow is already present. Be sure you are properly equipped. Children often have a tendency to wander off, so keep a close eye on them while in the woods.

If you travel any significant distance from your vehicle, be prepared for outdoor winter travel; and remember that winter weather conditions can change rapidly.