SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): Howard County is once again encouraging residents to recycle their live Christmas trees through its long-running Merry Mulch program, offering an environmentally responsible option once holiday decorations come down. The seasonal initiative diverts thousands of trees from landfills each year, converting them into useful compost and mulch.

Collected trees are processed at the county’s composting facility at Alpha Ridge Landfill, where organic material is transformed for reuse in landscaping and soil enrichment. County officials note that the program reduces disposal costs while supporting sustainability goals.

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The Merry Mulch program will operate from December 26 through January 17. Residents may drop off live trees daily at designated sites across Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Highland, Marriottsville, Savage, and Woodbine during regular hours. An online interactive map is available to help locate the nearest drop-off point.

Residents enrolled in curbside yard trim collection may also place trees out on their scheduled yard trim day through January 16. Trees must be free of all decorations, cut into sections under four feet, tied securely, and weigh less than 40 pounds per bundle.

After January 17, trees can still be delivered to the Alpha Ridge Landfill Wood Waste Area, open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.