You can still venture into the forest and cut your own Christmas tree in British Columbia.
But you have to get a permit to hunt down that conifer on Crown land — and then there’s the pandemic.
The Ministry of Forests said any British Columbian can apply for a permit free of charge in designated areas. But a spokesman for the ministry said Thursday you might want to consider where you live, citing the provincial health officer’s recent orders on non-essential travel between regions in the province.
If you live in Greater Victoria, the nearest Crown land where you can chop down a festive tree is in the Cowichan Valley or Port Alberni areas — and getting there would be considered non-essential travel. If you live close by a designated area, fill your boots.
There are some rules:
• Carry the permit signed by a district manager at all times, and be prepared to produce it at the request of a natural resource, conservation or police officers.
• You can’t cut a Christmas tree from private lands, plantations, research areas, parks, areas adjacent to rivers, streams, lakes or swamps, juvenile-spaced areas and any other areas reserved for a special use.
• Leave home prepared. Bring ropes, gloves, tools, tire chains, a first aid kit, a phone and warm clothing.
• Keep your pet safe. Remember that trapping seasons for wildlife primarily run from fall to spring.
More information can be found here.
