A stack of discarded Christmas trees awaits processing at a drop-off facility. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

By Wisconsin DNR

An article in the January edition of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Forest Health News contained some incorrect information on the disposal of wreaths, trees, boughs and other holiday decorations.

The article focused on disposing holiday plant matter in ways that avoided the spread of invasive insects, seeds and spores that can spread to harm trees, plants and habitats.

However, the article was incorrect in recommending that small plants be tightly bagged and disposed of in the trash. Wisconsin law generally prohibits landfill disposal of yard waste, including leaves, grass clippings, brush and pieces of wood (branches and sticks) less than 6 inches in diameter.

Instead, the DNR recommends a close inspection of holiday decorations, including plant matter or trees, to check for evidence of invasive insects, plants or fungal infections. If you find something that might be of concern, take close-up photos and send them to your local DNR Forest Health specialist along with your contact information.

If no issues are spotted during an inspection, the DNR recommends chipping or composting yard waste because the organic waste has value for gardening and landscaping, and if taken to a landfill will take up a lot of space and create harmful greenhouse gases when it breaks down.

To dispose of holiday trees, check if your municipality or a private service provider offers drop-off or curbside tree collection for residents. Remove lights, decorations and wires before placing the tree on the curb or taking it to the drop-off center.

If tree management is not offered in your area, check the Wisconsin Recycling Markets directory for a list of licensed composting facilities.

The complete article is available on the Forest Health News webpage.