SALT LAKE CITY — A recreational pass for fourth graders will get kids a free Christmas tree permit this year.

The “Every Kid Outdoors” program is a federal program aimed at getting fourth graders to explore nature.

According to the program’s website, the pass targets fourth graders because kids that age are “likely to connect with nature.”

And as part of that exploration, fourth graders in the program can get a free permit to cut down a Christmas tree this holiday season.

Fourth graders just need to fill out a diary of things they’d like to do outdoors, and from there can print their paper pass for the program.

Wildlife officials say cutting your own tree is a great way to help improve forest health. Cutting down trees helps thin out overcrowded stretches of skinny evergreens. 

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