Missoula’s Christmas Tree Recycling Program Returns Through Jan. 15

The city of Missoula is once again sponsoring the 34th annual Christmas Ever-Green tree recycling program. The program started in 1991 and since then has been instrumental in keeping Christmas trees out of Missoula’s landfills. 

Program Dates and Details

Residents can drop off their trees at McCormick Park, Playfair Park, and the South Avenue parking lot at Fort Missoula Regional Park. Trees can also be dropped off at Garden City Compost at 1125 Clark Fork Lane during business hours, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, at no charge during the season.  

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The recycling program will take place through January 15. The city wants to remind people to please remove all ornaments, decorations, and tree stands. Every year that I have dropped off my tree at the Playfair Park location, there are always one or two trees that still have an ornament on them. Please check your trees carefully.  

Donation Options to Support Forestry

For those who want to keep this program going and to help plant trees throughout the community, donations are being accepted online at missoulaparks.org/donate, by phone at 406-721-PARK (7275), or in person at Currents Aquatics Center in McCormick Park, or by mail to the Urban Forestry Division at 100 Hickory St., Missoula, MT 59801. 

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I have taken advantage of this program for many years, and I have appreciated how easy it is to just drop off the tree and be on my way.