The Mountainair district stopped selling permits for trees after the Ojo Peak Fire ripped through the area south of Red Canyon, according to Arlene Perea, public information officer for the Mountainair Ranger District.

"It's a really hazardous area," Perea said. "It's too dangerous."

Even if there were trees in the area that could be used as Christmas trees, Perea said, there is still a falling tree hazard.

Even though it may be a long drive to get live trees from Cibola National Forest, permits are now available.

Permits are available over-the-counter at Cibola National Forest offices beginning Nov. 23 and lasting through Dec. 24.

Offices are located at the Cibola National Forest Supervisor's Office in Albuquerque; the Mt. Taylor Ranger District in Grants; the Magdalena Ranger District; and on Saturdays only at the Ft. Wingate Office.

The cost is $10 per permit, with each household limited to one. Up to nine additional permits can be purchased for family or friends. Christmas Tree Maps and permit purchase information can be downloaded at:

www.fs.fed.us/r3/cibola/christmas-trees/christmas_trees_2009.shtml.