Indian Creek Nature Center Taking Used Christmas Trees

Still haven't figured out what to do with your Christmas tree? Donate it to Indian Creek Nature Center.

They are taking donated trees to use as mulch, according to KWWL. I know a lot of my neighbors are still keeping their decorations up, and when it comes time to take them down, Director of Land Stewardship Jean Wiedneheft says the tree remnants can be beneficial in helping Indian Creek Nature Center rebuild its trail system, much of which was damaged due to the derecho. That's a process that will be ongoing within the next two years. A free public meeting to learn about these plans can be attended virtually or in-person at Indian Creek Nature Center on January 19. Learn more here.

Indian Creek Nature Center is located at 5300 Otis Rd. SE.

Wiedenheft says Christmas trees can also be used as habitats for birds and squirrels.

Prairie Park Fishery says it has use for these trees as well, as in Spring they can become a habitat for fish in the reservoir.

People interested in recycling their trees in Cedar Rapids can also take them to the Sac & Fox trail parking lot, on Bertram Road and Wilder Drive SE, or Prairie Park Fishery, 2125 Otis Road SE through the end of January. The Christmas trees must have all their decorations removed, as it can interfere with the mulching equipment.

Waterloo will start pickup of trees next Monday. They should be completely undecorated and cut to less than 6 feet. Place the tree curbside on your usual garbage collection day.