Jackie Thompson

Christmas tree recycling efforts are still in place across the US, with the majority of trees being used for shredding into chippings that are then used as mulch in local parks and woodland areas. However, trees are also being used to feed a bevy of animals, including alpacas, goats, and pigs, which consider pine trees to be delicious snacks. Pine trees are also a nutritious food source for birds, squirrels, deer, and many more animals since they contain seeds and needles that are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Many states are offering tree recycling opportunities and delivering old trees to hungry animals. Old trees can also be recycled into mulch, which is then placed in parks and other natural landscapes.

States like Nevada Encouraging Community Action

Nevada is encouraging tree farmers and gardeners to see tree recycling as a way of ‘paying it forward’. Its campaign stresses the importance of giving new life to trees instead of simply dumping them in landfills. Citizens can bring trees to one of eight dropoff locations, with the Boy Scouts of America offering pickup services to those who are unable to take their tree to a designated location. Professional landscaping companies that promote sustainability can also play an important role in tree recycling during this season, taking advantage of the availability of nearby dropoff sites. Getting rid of pines may be indicated if a significant part of the tree is damaged, the tree has become hollow, or its trunk has sustained significant damage. Eco-friendly landscapers and gardeners find ways to make old trees and plants useful. Old pine trees, for instance, are recycled into mulch and used to protect and enrich the land in parks, gardens, and other green zones.

Pine Trees are Part of a Varied Diet for Some Mammals

As is the case in Nevada, Christmas trees are being recycled at breakneck speed in Maine, with many Christmas tree farms collecting old trees to provide a healthy snack for goats and other farm animals. Pine trees can form part of a balanced diet that reflects these animals’ natural grazing habits. In the case of goats, fragrant pine needles contribute to the robust flavor of goats’ cheese. Many animals are mad about pine seeds but pine needles are considered a treat by others. Alpacas, for instance, are known to devour pine needles, which are an optimal source of roughage and help with worm control. Pine needles are additionally rich in vitamins. For instance, they contain five times the concentration of Vitamin C you might find in lemons.

Additional Ways to Recycle Christmas Trees

Homeowners and gardeners who have missed Christmas tree recycling deadlines can make use of their old Christmas tree in many ways. For instance, it can be placed near outdoor bird feeders to provide extra coverage for birds. Pine cones, meanwhile, can be used to make bird edibles, branches can be used to make a brush pile, and fallen needles can be turned into mulch. Additionally, homeowners with ponds can sink their entire tree in their pond to add a new habitat for fish.

States across the nation are completing their Christmas tree collection and recycling programs. Collected trees are being used to feed animals and are being recycled into mulch for parks and other green areas. Those who have missed collection dates should consider additional ways to reuse their tree (or part of it) instead of taking the whole tree to a landfill.

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