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What to do with your Christmas tree post-holidays

It stood tall and proud and brought family and friends around it to celebrate and open gifts, but the sun is setting on the life and usefulness of the live Christmas tree as the year draws to a close.
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Photo: KRISTINA PAUKSHTITE FROM PEXELS

It stood tall and proud and brought family and friends around it to celebrate and open gifts, but the sun is setting on the life and usefulness of the live Christmas tree as the year draws to a close.

So what do you do with that tree once it has outstayed its welcome?

In Whistler, Christmas trees can be dropped off at both the Nesters and Function Junction Depots from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, from Dec. 26 to Jan. 13.

The 4th Squamish Scout Group is holding its annual tree chipping in the Canadian Tire parking lot on Jan. 4 and 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The service is by donation.

How do you know if your tree is beyond its best before date?

Run your fingers down the branches and if the needles break easily or fall off in your hand, the tree is dry and should be removed from the house, according to an online article by Rick Bates of the Department of Horticulture at Penn State University.

"A well-cared-for tree should normally remain fresh at least three to four weeks before drying to an unacceptable level," he said.

Dead trees can also be dropped off at the District of Squamish Landfill, for a tipping fee.

Remember the Landfill is closed New Year's Day.

Got a saw? Christmas trees can also be disposed of in organics totes, according to the District, if the following steps are taken:

Remove all tinsel and decorations

Cut off all branches

Cut the tree trunk to no longer than three feet and no more than three inches in diameter

Make sure all the pieces can fit into the tote with the lid closed

This article originally appeared here.