MISSOULA — It’s time to start thinking about what to do with the Christmas tree that’s been sitting in your home all month.
Thanks to Missoula Parks and Recreation, the Street Maintenance Division, and Garden City Compost, you have until Jan. 15 to drop off your tree at no cost at Garden City Compost, Playfair Park, McCormick Park, and the very west end of Fort Missoula Park.
But, don’t forget to ditch the ornaments and tinsel before you drop off, as those items are not recyclable.
By disposing of your Christmas tree this way, you’re helping to save space in the city’s waste facility and converting your tree into usable products like compost and wood chips.
Parks and Recreation has added a twist to their tree disposal operation this year -- if you use a drop off location, you're encouraged you to consider making a donation toward planting new trees in Missoula.
“We use those funds to re-tree the community, both on our boulevards and in our parks, and that’s very important for us for global warming, clean air, and then just overall health and quality of life," Parks Systems and Services Superintendent David Selvage explained.
Americans cut down over 15 million trees to decorate their homes for the holidays each year and by making a donation to the city’s tree fund, you’re playing a small part in overcoming a much larger issue.
Donations can be made here.
