Capitol Market hosting Christmas Tree recycling

 

West Virginians can dispose of their Christmas Trees this season by donating them to be recycled.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 2, the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s Rehabilitation Environmental Action Program (REAP) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will have a Christmas Tree drop-off at the Capitol Market in downtown Charleston.

The program not only keeps people from dumping their trees after the holiday season, it also keeps trees out of landfills. The recycled trees are used to create fish habitats at the bottom of lakes and streams throughout West Virginia. Each year, existing rotting habitats are replaced by newly recycled trees and new habitats are created, as well. Extra trees not needed for lake and stream habitats are ground to make mulch used throughout the state.  

“This is a worthwhile project that not only diverts waste from our landfills but also provides a wonderful habitat for fish in our West Virginia lakes,” said Project Coordinator Sandy Rogers, of the DEP.

The program is in its fifth year. Rogers hopes to collect around 500 trees this year.

There are benefits for donators as well. They’ll receive a gift made from recycled materials and also have their name entered into drawings for larger prizes. Canaan Valley ski resort has donated a ski trip; Winterplace ski resort has donated free ski lessons; and the primary sponsor, Capitol Market, has donated a $30 gift card.

For more information contact Rogers at (304) 926-0499 ex. 1004.

Contact:

Kathy Cosco
304-926-0499
Kathy.Cosco@wv.gov