Don't throw your Christmas tree in the chipper just yet. The Wildlife Rescue Association of B.C. is looking for donations of used Christmas trees to help injured and orphaned animals.
The non-profit group has headquarters at Burnaby Lake, and the association uses the trees for birds that need a place to perch while in their recovery pens.
Trees can be dropped off at 5216 Glencarin Dr. Make sure that all decorations, especially tinsel, are removed, as they can be choking hazards for wildlife. Call the association at 604-526-2747 for more info. (*Note: Since we wrote this story, the association has been inundated with tree donations and has more than enough.)
Eco-Centre drop off
If you prefer to recycle your tree, just swing by Burnaby's Eco-Centre and drop off your used conifer free of charge. The service is for Burnaby residents only, so you'll need to prove your address. Make sure to remove all ornaments, including tinsel and lights, and trees more than five feet tall must be cut in half. Artificial trees are not accepted, nor are real trees sprayed with fake snow.
The trees are thrown in with the rest of the yard trimmings the city collects, and everything is composted with a Delta company called EcoSmart. Burnaby then buys back the composted soil to use throughout the city.
Curbside collection
Local residents can leave their trees on the curb for pickup, as well. The pick-up dates depend on which side of Highway 1 you live on. Residents north of Highway 1 must have their tree outside by Monday, Jan. 6. Anyone living on the south side of the highway needs to have the tree outside by Monday, Jan. 13.
Tree chipping
For those who prefer to send the tree off in a more celebratory way, the Burnaby Firefighters Charitable Society is holding its annual Christmas Tree Chip this Sunday.
There will be hot dogs, pop and fire trucks, according to an email from the society. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fire Station #1, 4867 Sperling Ave.
