County Still Accepting Christmas Trees for Recycling

The Somerset County Park Commission is accepting natural Christmas trees for recycling through Thursday, Jan. 31, at locations in Bridgewater and Franklin Township. The collection began on Dec. 26.
 
Somerset County residents may bring their tree either to Colonial Park, Parking Lot F, 156 Mettlers Road in the Somerset section of Franklin Township or to North Branch Park, 355 Milltown Road in Bridgewater at the northern end of the parking lot near the lighted ball field.

Rather than sending the trees to a landfill, the county will chip the recycled trees into wood chip mulch which will be used throughout the park system to mulch plantings. Some chips or mulch will be made available to the public at each of the drop-off sites at no cost.

Both facilities will accept trees from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week.
 
Each family is limited to only one tree that must be free of all ornaments, wires, netting, and tinsel. Only real trees will be accepted. Wreaths and garland will not be accepted as these items cannot be recycled.

Deliveries from groups or dealers will be rejected, according to information from the county. Following these guidelines is necessary to maintain a manageable recycling program.
 
For information, call the Somerset County Park Commission Horticulture Department at 732 873-2459, ext. 21, or NJ Relay at 711 for individuals with a hearing or speech impairment, Monday to Friday (except holidays) from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
 
Information on Somerset County Park Commission activities may be found online.