Department of Natural Resources offers tips for disposing Christmas trees

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is offering residents tips to help dispose of Christmas trees this season.

MoDNR said many cities and towns offer tree-chipping services after the holidays. Mulched holiday trees reduce weeds, help regulate soil temperature and increase moisture retention.

MoDNR said that Christmas trees may also be used as a fish habitat in a lake or fishing pond. Officials said residents can contact the department to find a collection center for the trees.

Citizens can also help wildlife by decorating a tree as a food source. Officials say residents should remove all the decorations and then redecorate the tree with food items that can be eaten by birds, chipmunks and squirrels. Items can include popcorn, cranberries or pine cones covered in peanut butter.

Officials said the tree will need to be secured. The best method for securing the tree is to dig a hole and place the trunk of the tree in it. The tree can also be staked for extra security.

MoDNR officials said residents should never burn a tree in wood stoves or fireplaces if it is still green because the resins could cause a flue fire.

For more tips, click here.

For more information on tree recycling, contact the department’s Solid Waste Management Program at (800) 361-4827 or by clicking here.