CENTERVILLE, Ind. – Cope Environmental Center is accepting used Christmas trees for recycling through Jan. 16.

The program is offered in partnership with Richmond Power & Light. RP&L mulches the trees, and the material is reused for trail maintenance and land stewardship projects throughout Cope’s property.

“The mulch helps protect trail edges, reduce erosion, define natural pathways, and improve muddy or high-traffic areas. Using the trees in this way allows Cope to maintain safe, sustainable trails while reusing natural materials already available within our community,” said Becca Vance, Administrative & Marketing Coordinator.

Vance said recycling live Christmas trees keeps them out of landfills, where they would take up space and release methane as they decompose.

“Repurposing trees allows valuable organic material to return to the land, providing habitat for wildlife, soil enrichment, and erosion reduction,” she said.

Cope has offered Christmas tree recycling for several years, with community participation continuing to grow. Each season, the center receives hundreds of trees, all of which are used in conservation efforts.

Vance said this program supports Cope’s mission of promoting sustainability, environmental stewardship, and conservation education.

“It provides an easy, eco-friendly option for residents while creating valuable resources for wildlife and enhancing natural areas that the community enjoys year-round,” she said.

Residents should remove all decorations before drop-off, including lights, ornaments, tinsel and tree stands.

Trees can be dropped off at 4910 Shoemaker Road. The designated drop-off area is located on the southwest side of the parking lot as drivers exit. Cope is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Image source: Cope Environmental Center Facebook Page