Press Release

Simi Valley, December 7, 2009 - Each year, millions of Christmas trees brighten up homes and children's hearts. But after the first presents are opened and the ornaments removed, the once-sparkling tree often gets hauled out to the curb.

This year, be sure to recycle that tree. Communities all over the country have set up recycling programs to turn trees into garden mulch. Locally, Waste Management offers its annual free tree-recycling program for two-weeks after the holidays beginning December 26. Residents can take advantage of curbside collection or bring it directly to us for free recycling.

Residents can cut trees in half and place them in the greenwaste container or place at curbside on the regular scheduled service day. Before recycling your tree, be sure to remove the tinsel, plastic and other non-recyclable ornaments. Never burn your Christmas tree, even if it is dried out.

As a reminder, trash and recycling services will be delayed one day due to the Christmas and New Year's holiday. For example, if your regular service day is scheduled for Friday, then service will be on Saturday.

"Recycling your Christmas tree is giving a gift back to the environment," said Lisa Hemenway, Community Relations Manager for Waste Management. "Mulching a tree provides a protective barrier for the roots of other plants while preventing weeds from growing. The mulch then decomposes, providing the nutrients plants need to thrive."

According to the National Christmas Tree Association, pine needle mulch helps winter soil retain heat. When spring arrives, warm soil encourages early seeding and fast growth. As the season progresses, the mulch stabilizes temperature and moisture, and prevents sunlight from germinating weed seeds.

The Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center will also accept trees beginning December 26 through January 16 from 7 am to 4 pm and located at 2801 Madera Road in Simi Valley. For the annual curbside Christmas tree recycling program, please contact customer service at (805) 522-5400 or if you choose to bring it to the landfill please call (805) 579-7267.

Waste Management provides Ventura County with recycling, trash hauling and solid waste disposal through G.I. Industries and the Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center. Waste Management has owned and operated G.I. Industries since 1998 and the SVLRC site since 1983 and employs more than 230 people in Ventura County. The SVLRC provides approximately 60% of Ventura County's daily refuse disposal needs. The company operates a "green power" program at the site that generates enough power for 2,500 homes, and clean-burning LNG powers 38 of its trucks. Waste Management is a significant contributor to area community groups. For more information visit our website www.keepingventuracountyclean.com.