Christmas tree recycling pickup to begin in Terrebonne Saturday

Terrebonne Parish residents may want to leave their Christmas trees up a few extra days in an effort to help restore coastal wetlands. Trees placed on curbsides for normal pickup between Saturday and Jan. 9, will be taken to the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge and the Orleans Audubon property’s observation area to provide a natural reef.

Used trees are placed in wooden frames to create brush fences. Once in place, brush fences help to weaken wave erosion on marsh areas. They can also trap sediments, which can help to rebuild wetlands. Because the trees are lightweight and organic, they improve water quality and create a natural habitat for fish and crustaceans. Brush fences have even been known to house small animals and birds.

“This is an excellent opportunity to recycle Christmas trees, promote environmental management and preserve our beloved wetlands,” Terrebonne Parish Community Problem Solver Linda Henderson said.

In order for trees to be accepted for the program, they must be stripped of all decorations and tinsel and the tree stand must be removed. Tress with flocking and artificial trees will not be accepted.

The program, sponsored by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, is in its 19th year and has resulted in over 40,000 linear feet of brush fences. More than 1.5 million trees have been recycled in the state of Louisiana to date.