Shelby County Christmas tree recycling program turns trees into mulch | Environment

Shelby County is offering an alternative to kicking your Christmas tree to the curb after the holiday season.

Between Dec. 22 and Jan. 11 you can bring your Christmas tree, wreaths, garlands and other greenery to the Christmas tree recycling center located in the south parking lot of the Shelby County Showplace Arena (105 Germantown Rd.)

"All trees that are recycled are diverted from the landfill which is a one of the goals for sustainable Shelby," said Director of Shelby County Public Works Tom Needham.

The recycling of trees at the Agricenter will save many Memphians the cost disposing of their trees and help eliminate the creation of seasonal illegal dump sites for trees.

The recycling program has been active for 14 years.

Based on Shelby County Public Works tonnage record the highest ever hit was 75 tons or 150,000 pounds in 2002.

The lowest recorded was in 2009 with 24.3 tons or 28,600 pounds of trees being recycled.

"The fluctuation is basically due to the economy and sales of trees, vendors unloading unsold stock or trees recycled at curbside such as in the City of Memphis," said Needham.

Last year, 48.6 tons or 97,200 pounds were recorded.

According to Needham, an overall average seems to be 30 to 35 tons annually.

"The mulching of these trees eliminates the landfill cost for disposal which can be as high as $45 a ton for some citizens or a savings in tipping fees of over $2,000 in 2011," said Needham.

All of the greenery is taken to the mulching site where the City of Memphis chips the trees to be used as mulch.

The mulch giveaway is orchestrated by the City of Memphis yearly and it is free.