Recycling Program Takes Christmas Trees

Old trees become new wood chips

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By Kate McPherson
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Story Created: Dec 26, 2012 at 7:49 PM AKDT

Story Updated: Dec 26, 2012 at 7:49 PM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - Not only do old Christmas trees become a fire hazard, they begin to look not-so-festive when they turn brown.

So it's good news someone is willing to take them off your hands.

Alaskans For Litter Prevention And Recycling (ALPAR) is once again coordinating a recycling program for Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley.

The executive director of ALPAR, Mary Fisher, said the trees are turned into wood chips and used in schools, along trails and in parks around town. This year the Alaskan Sled Dog and Racing Association will also receive wood chips.

Organizers ask that you double check that all decorations and lights have been removed.

“Lights and ornaments don’t go well through the chipper, but they also don’t look so great on trails and gardens, so we want to keep those out as much as possible,” said Fisher.

Last year the recycle program collected 7,800 live trees, and this year that number is expected to rise.

“No wreaths -- we can’t recycle those wreaths because they have really hardcore wire in them and we can’t put those through the chipper,” said Fisher.

There is no charge to drop off your tree.

Collection starts this Friday, December 28, and goes until January 15.

You can leave trees in Carrs parking lots in Anchorage, Eagle River and Palmer.
 

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