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When Christmas is over, and its time start New Years resolutions there’s always that task of taking down the tree. The funny thing is that everyone wants to set it up, but no one wants to clean up and remove it. Yet, removing your tree doesn’t have to be a sad time or an abrupt conclusion to the holidays. This can also be a time to remove your tree in a way that it can be recycled or repurposed.

Many communities offer curbside pickup for Christmas trees once the season is over with.  Contact your local waste management company, recycling center, or the National Christmas Tree Association for specific guidelines regarding when or where. Every community may do a little bit differently. In some cases, the Boy Scouts of America will do it all for you for just a small, charitable donation. General best practices include cleaning the tree of all ornaments and cutting the tree into portions for easy pick-up and disposal.

Recycling your tree is a great and positive way of removing it from your home. However, if you’re a DIY type of person, then try using your imagination and use the tree for something different. The uses are endless, but I will share some of my favorites with you.  If you have a bird feeder, take multiple branches, spread them with margarine and peanut butter and dip it into birdseed. Once the birds realize what’s in the feeder, they won’t be able to stay away.  Your tree can also be used for your garden beds during the winter. If you want to add a little something extra to winterize your gardens, cover them with pine boughs. Believe me, come spring, you will not be disappointed. You can also use the tree as mulch for your garden in the spring and compost pieces of the tree you don’t use.  For a really quick DIY project, cut piece of the trunk of tree and decorate with a ribbon or give it some color and add it to your fireplace. You can also use it as a centerpiece for your coffee table.  My personal favorite way to remove or repurpose your Christmas tree is to tap into my inner ‘Ron Swanson’ to cut and treat discs from the trunk of the tree and use them as coasters for your homes. These also serve as great gifts for all your close friends and family who appreciate the great outdoors.

Whether you are recycling your tree or using it to feed your goats, as they love to chew on the branches and needles, use your imagination now that this holiday season is over to remove your tree. It’s doesn’t have to be a sad, letting go experience. Start the New Year off right and have some fun!