Encourage tree lot operators to bring in their excess trees. Leftover trees from lots account for around 5 percent of trees available for recycling in many years. Trees that have dried out and are not saleable may come in the week before Christmas. These can be chipped early so that chips are available when the first trees start arriving from homes. Most larger communities set up tree dropoff sites throughout the community.
Volunteers can help to unload trees and remove plastic tree bags.
Sponsors with chippers rotate among the sites, converting the trees to fragrant mulching materials. Due to safety concerns, it is best to avoid chipping on busy dropoff days. Chips are either given away for home landscape use or are used by park departments. Once homeowners and gardeners have learned about these chips, the demand for the chips often exceeds the supply. Publicity As with most programs, a variety of publicity methods work best.