B.L.M. officials say permits for cutting Christmas trees are now on sale, but only in designated areas.

Permits are $10 per tree and may be purchased at the Grand Junction Field Office, located at 2815 H Road. You can buy a permit Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., according to Christopher Joyner, B.L.M. public affairs specialist.

B.L.M. officials say Pinyon Pine and Junipers are the only types of trees that may be cut. More than one permit can be bought at the same time, but the trees are for personal use and cannot be resold.

The designated areas for cutting Christmas trees are all within a one-hour drive of Grand Junction.

Designated Areas:

Dominguez/Farmers Canyon (Uncompahgre Plateau)

Gateway

Tom's Canyon and 5.7 Road and 8.4 Road near monument (Glade Park)

John Brown Canyon near Gateway

Lands End Road near Grand Junction

These are the only areas where it's acceptable to cut down a Christmas tree on B.L.M. lands within the Grand Junction Field Office.

According to B.L.M. officials, the areas with the largest selection of trees are Gateway and Farmers Canyon. Toms Canyons have the poorest selection of trees.

You must park along the road, walk to your destination, and carry the tree out. Cross-country motorized vehicles are not permitted.

B.L.M. officials remind you to bring along a hand saw, rope or twine, extra food, water and blankets.

Four-wheel drive vehicles equipped with tire chains, a shovel and emergency supplies are also recommended.

When you purchase your permit, a list of rules and directions will be provided.

Maps of designated areas can be found by visiting this link: http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/gjfo/christmas_tree_permits.html.

For more information, you can call the BLM information desk at (970) 244-3000.