Tree Recycling

Wondering how to dispose or recycle your Christmas tree?

A lot of it comes down to the preparation. Most trees are recycled into wood chips or compost, so it’s important to remove all lights, tinsel, ornaments, nails, stands and other non-organic materials. Flocked trees may not be accepted at all locations and over-sized trees should be cut in half. If in doubt, call ahead for additional information and fees.

Republic Services provides curbside tree recycling through your weekly yard debris collection service. Trees must fit completely inside your green yard debris collection bin if using your regular weekly service, so you may need to cut them up. Customers with no yard waste service or with trees not able to fit in yard waste bins, can contact Republic Services at 503-636-3011 to schedule a pick-up for a fee.

In addition, there are a number of other local recycling options:

Local Lake Oswego Girl Scout Troop 40343 will be recycling trees and wreaths from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the upper parking lot of George Rogers on the following dates: December 27, 28, 29 and January 3, 4, 5. Suggested starting donation is $20. If you have any questions, please email troop40343@gmail.com.
Local Scout Troop 221 will be recycling Christmas trees and wreaths between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday, January 4 and Sunday, January 5. The drive-up recycling service will be located at the Mountain Park Church overflow parking lot (SW Jefferson Ave. & SW McNary Pkwy). The suggested donation is $12 per tree, $10 for wreath, and $15 for pick up in area codes 97219, 97034, 97035. Flocked trees are not accepted. This troop chips and mulches on site to help beautify the neighborhood. To schedule pick up, visit www.bsatroop221.us.
Local Scout Troop 555 will be recycling trees and wreaths from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Yakima Building (4101 Kruse Way) on Saturday, January 4 and Sunday, January 5. Donations are optional. If you have any questions, please email kate.firmin@hotmail.com.
In addition, local non-profit groups usually offer opportunities for pick-up/drop off options. Watch for announcements throughout the community.

Reduce the Risk

As Christmas trees dry out, they become more and more flammable. Make sure to get rid of your tree after the holiday or when it is dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.