Delaware encourages recycling of used Christmas trees

Delaware officials say the state recycled over 173,000 tons of yard waste in 2019.

Ornaments are pictured close-up on a Christmas tree

Christmas ornaments are pictured in a file photo. (TJ Holowaychuk/Unsplash)

Delaware officials are encouraging residents to recycle Christmas trees at yard waste facilities around the state.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control issued a news release saying that some sites will take the trees for free and others charge for the service. Some curbside waste collectors will also pick up trees. Officials encourage people to call in advance to check on the logistics.

State officials say that some sites will accept trees starting Dec. 26.

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“Whether dropping off a Christmas tree or having it collected, prepare it to be recycled into mulch by stripping off all decorations and lights, removing any flocking (fake snow) and detaching tree stands,” the state officials said in a news release.

Delaware officials say the state recycled over 173,000 tons of yard waste in 2019.

Residents can check the state’s list of yard waste drop-off sites online.

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