December 21, 2005

The Department of Environmental Quality reminds residents that alternatives are available for recycling rather than throwing away Christmas trees. Christmas trees can be chipped into mulch, composted, used to prevent soil erosion, or used to create wildlife habitat.

Many Michigan communities offer Christmas tree recycling. Individuals should check with their community to see if pick-up or drop-off programs are available, or go to the DEQ Web site at http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,1607,7-135--132981--,00.html  to find a local recycling contact.

Michigan law does not prohibit Christmas trees from being disposed of in landfills or incinerated, however, Michigan residents are encouraged to seek out alternatives before the landfill disposal option is considered. This promotes the wise use of environmental resources and extends the life of landfills in our state.

For additional information, go to the DEQ Web site at http://www.michigan.gov/deq or call the Environmental Assistance Center at 1-800-662-9278.

Editor’s note: DEQ news releases are available on the department’s Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

“Protecting Michigan’s Environment, Ensuring Michigan’s Future”

Revised December 21, 2005 by Pat Watson