Reporter for The Canyon Weekly
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was able to donate more than 60 Christmas trees to local families after a poacher cut them down last month on state forest land near Mill City.
The sheriff’s office said on Nov. 21 dozens of Douglas fir trees were discovered illegally cut down in the Santiam State Forest and left to waste.
A suspect has been identified, but was named only as “The Grinch” in a Dec. 6 sheriff’s office Facebook post about the incident.
“Rest assured, the Grinch will get their day in court,” said the post.
LCSO office also said, after assessing the condition of the poached firs, they determined many of the trees were ideally suited for the holidays.
“These trees were the perfect size to fill the living rooms of families in need,” said the post. “The following day deputies loaded up their four-wheel drive sleighs and recovered the Christmas trees and delivered them for donation. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office was able to salvage 63 trees suitable for spreading holiday cheer this season!”
The trees were donated to Santiam Service Integration, which said on Facebook deputies were “the best team partners.”
“We were happy to help connect these trees to the perfect homes,” said the post. “Thank you for this opportunity, LCSO.”
Christmas Tree Safety Tips
• Saw off at least one-half inch above the original cut.
• Mount securely in a tree stand, pail, tub, or other water-type holder or reservoir.
• Maintain the water level above the cut as long as the tree is indoors and add fresh water daily.
• Avoid placement near heating sources including fireplaces, air vents and space heaters which can accelerate the drying process and may also pose an ignition hazard.
-Oregon State Fire Marshal
