For the Christmas season, you chose a live evergreen. Ahh, the fresh, clean smell wafting through your house is enough to put anyone in the happy Christmas spirit. But now Christmas is past. Wrapping paper and boxes are all that is left. Except for… the tree. What can you do with the tree? The Missouri Department of Conservation has suggestions.
Donate
MDC (the Missouri Department of Conservation) has three drop locations to donate your used live tree. They are in Columbia, Jefferson City, and California. These are centrally located in the state to accommodate the most residents. Remove the lights, garland, ornaments, and tinsel before donating. If you are not too busy and want a road trip, perhaps donating your tree is just what you need.
Fish Hatcheries
Some fish hatcheries in Missouri take live trees to be used in ponds for increased habitat for the fish.
Home Use
Like hatcheries, you can submerge your live tree in a pond. If you do not own a pond, perhaps check with a neighbor. These help small fish hide from larger predators.
You can place the tree under birdfeeders or near clearing edges as sanctuaries for wildlife. Choose wisely if you have outdoor cats. Birds, rabbits, and squirrels are among the small wildlife that could find refuge in the tree.
Even without consciously thinking about recycling, one is reusing a live tree, returning it to the environment.
