Monticello, N.Y. – Sullivan County residents, businesses, and visitors can retire their Christmas trees for free at any of the county’s six transfer stations from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31.
Trees can be dropped off at participating locations, and county employees will chip them for use as mulch in county parks, landscaping, and beautification projects. Repurposing the wood chips helps conserve natural resources while enhancing the appearance of public spaces.
“Residents, businesses, and visitors with limited access to open space are encouraged to take their trees to any Sullivan County Transfer Station for free disposal,” said Recycling Coordinator Kassie Thelman.
For those with backyards or open spaces, trees can also be repurposed at home. “Strategically placed, spent Christmas trees offer welcome cover during the winter months for birds and wildlife,” Thelman said.
Officials caution that Christmas trees should not be placed in home recycling bins. Choosing a disposal method that keeps trees out of landfills is strongly recommended.
For more information on tree drop-off locations, hours, and other waste reduction and recycling strategies, contact the Sullivan County Department of Solid Waste & Recycling at 845-807-0290 or visit www.sullivanny.gov/Departments/SolidWasteRecycling
The department is also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sullivancountyrecycles