Your Ultimate Guide to Recycling and Disposing of Christmas Trees in Williston, ND

When the holidays wrap up and it’s time to retire your natural Christmas tree, tossing it into the fireplace might seem like a quick, no-cost solution. But that approach could cause more harm than good—not just to your chimney but also to your safety.

Plus, with Monday, January 6th recognized as National Take Down the Christmas Tree Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to consider smarter, more practical ways to repurpose your tree.

Why Burning Your Christmas Tree Isn’t the Best Idea

Natural evergreens like your Christmas tree are packed with pitch, sap, and needles that burn differently from seasoned firewood. Here’s why that’s a problem:

• Chimney Hazards: Burning pitchy wood can create creosote buildup in your chimney, increasing the risk of a dangerous chimney fire.
• Overheating Issues: The high heat from burning green wood could damage the bricks or masonry in your chimney, leaving you with costly repairs.
• Unpredictable Fires: Needles burn fast and throw off sparks, making fires harder to control.

So, unless you’re looking to add "chimney repair" to your January to-do list, save the Christmas tree for other uses.

Safer, More Practical Ways to Recycle Your Tree

1. Outdoor Fire Pit Fun
Got a backyard fire pit? This is one place your tree can safely shine. While you’ll still want to watch for sparks and keep a fire extinguisher handy, an outdoor fire pit doesn’t have a chimney to worry about. Pro tip: Let the wood dry out a bit first—it’ll burn more evenly.

2. Mulch for Your Garden
Turn that tree into landscaping gold! Many local waste services in North Dakota offer tree pick-up programs, turning trees into wood chips for mulch. If your area doesn’t have this service, consider renting a wood chipper with your neighbors and making your own. Mulch is great for weed control and helps your garden beds look sharp.

3. DIY Projects for Handy North Dakotans
Your tree can live on as more than just memories:

• Coasters: Slice rounds from the trunk and sand them down for rustic drink coasters.
• Garden Edging: Cut sections of the trunk to border flower beds or garden paths.
  Just remember: Safety first! Always wear gloves and protective gear when working with tools.

4. Plant Markers or Stakes
Turn smaller branches into practical plant markers for your garden. Strip off the needles, shave the bark, and label with a marker. It’s a simple, functional way to reuse those branches.

5. Pine Needle Sachets
Love that fresh pine scent? Collect the needles to make sachets. Sew up small fabric pouches, stuff them with needles, and enjoy the smell of Christmas in your drawers or closets. Or use the needles as a protective cover for your winter garden—they can help insulate plants and add nutrients to the soil.

If these projects feel like too much work, make sure you dispose of your tree properly. You cannot just throw them into, or place them on the ground next to your home garbage bin. Williston Public Works has placed a 20-yard container for Christmas tree disposal at the following locations:

📍Corner of 5th St E & 8th Ave E (across the street on the west side of old Public Works)

📍Western Star Ball Complex - 19th Ave W & 15th St W

📍Rickard Elementary School - 14th St E & 2nd Ave E

The containers are to be used for Christmas trees ONLY and will remain there if trees continue to be placed within. The containers will be removed from sites on January 10, 2025.

A Final Word on Safety

However you decide to repurpose your Christmas tree, ensure that all ornaments, tinsel, and lights have been removed beforehand. These materials can pose environmental hazards or interfere with recycling processes. With a little creativity and effort, your tree can have a second life while keeping North Dakota’s environment clean and safe.