Not a big fan of letting this year’s Christmas tree rot in the backyard?

We don’t blame you. Do you cringe every time you hear the burnt-out strand of lights hit the bottom of the garbage can? So do we. To help you avoid the rot and waste that comes after the holiday season, here are some specifics for how to recycle your pine tree and lights this year if you live in Eau Claire. (Outside Eau Claire, check with your local trash hauler or municipality.) 

• Drop a tree – be sure to remove the tree bags and ornaments first – off at the Jeffers Road Green Waste Facility from Dec. 26 through Jan. 31 at no cost to all residents courtesy of Boxx Sanitation.
• Drop lights off (excluding plastic rope lights) at the Eau Claire County Courthouse’s main lobby (across from the treasurer’s office) through mid-January at no cost to residents.

Don’t forget to remove all tinsel, lights, and decorations before tossing your tree!