Wake County program still accepting live Christmas trees for mulching

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Monday, January 12, 2026
Wake County program still accepting live Christmas trees for mulching

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Happy Trails Program in Wake County turns old Christmas trees into mulch.

ABC11 got an up-close look at the process Monday.

The mulch will be used to fortify park trails around the county.

Officials with the program said it's a great way to recycle live trees.

"It gives them a second life. Really one of the greatest benefits of this program, I think, is that it also offers groups and individuals the opportunity to volunteer to spread the mulch," said Ben Witternberg, park manager. "So, it kind of comes full circle."

There are nine drop-off locations accepting trees through Jan. 31.

ALSO SEE | Parts of Pullen Park in Raleigh to close for renovations

Last year, 3,800 trees were turned into 83 tons of mulch.

What about Durham?

Meanwhile, in the Bull City, the Waste Disposal and Recycling Center at 215 E. Club Blvd. is accepting live trees through Feb. 7.

There are four other drop-off locations in Durham that are open Saturdays only.

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