Disposing of holiday greens and Christmas trees correctly
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(ABC 6 News) – With Christmas behind us, the big job of cleaning up all those holiday decorations is about to begin.
State officials are reminding not to dispose of their Christmas trees and other decorative greenery in their yards to avoid the spread of invasive species.
The best option is to use a curbside tree collection or bring trees to a designated drop-off site.
Check with your waste hauler, city, or county to see what services are offered in your area. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has a map of yard waste compost locations; contact locations directly to see if they accept trees and greenery.
Do not toss trees and greenery into your backyard woods or residential compost pile, which can spread the invasive species or disease.
Wreaths and other decorative greens can be disposed in trash cans.
If your city or county does not have an organized pick-up or drop-off, the last resort is to burn the greens. Always check fire danger conditions and burning restrictions before burning and follow local ordinances.