ELKO, Nev. - Christmas tree tags are now available at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Elko District Office. BLM tree permits are $4 each with a limit of five per person.

Tags for Christmas tree cutting on BLM-administered lands in the Elko area can be purchased at the Elko BLM Office, 3900 Idaho Street during regular office hours, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by mail from the BLM, 3900 Idaho Street, Elko, NV 89801 before December 11.

Mail-in requests should include a check or money order payable to the Department of the Interior-BLM, a return address, and the name and address of each person requesting a permit.

Additionally, BLM tree tags are available at the Wendover Port of Entry, open 4:30 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week; at the Montello Post Office, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays; and at the Wells Forest Service Office, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.Pinion pine and Utah juniper are the only Christmas trees that can be cut on BLM- administered lands.

Areas recommended for tree hunters are Spruce Mountain, east of Ruby Valley; Cherry Creek Range, west of Currie; the Murdock Mountains, west of Montello; Dolly Varden Mountain, northeast of Currie; Pequop Mountains and Wood Hills, both east of Wells; Pilot and Toano Ranges, north of Wendover; and Sugar Loaf Peak, south of the Goshute Mountains. People are advised to plan ahead for their tree-cutting activities.

Cold weather combined with snow can make travel into the mountains dangerous. Emergency equipment and supplies such as chains, snow tires, a first aid kit, blankets, and extra food and water are recommended. Always tell someone where you are going and provide an expected return time.