Zoo to recycle Christmas trees

The Birmingham Zoo, in partnership with the Mountain Brook Tree Commission, is collecting Christmas Trees to recycle after the holidays.

The recycled material has various uses at the zoo, including erosion control and reducing soil compaction within the root zone of the trees that shade the picnic area.

The Mountain Brook Tree Commission is encouraging residents to deposit Christmas trees between Dec. 26 and Jan. 6.

The collection site is located inside the main zoo gate and is marked by signs upon entrance. Trees can be dropped off during normal business hours.

Organizers remind residents to remove all ornaments, lights and other objects from trees beforehand. Foreign objects like wire, twine, lights, ornaments, and garland will damage the chipper. No garland or wreaths of any kind can be accepted.