'Don't burn Guam': dropoff Christmas tree in exchange for native seedling

The Guam Department of Agriculture is encouraging residents to recycle their Christmas trees instead of burning them, as the island moves into the dry season and wildfire risks increase.

Beginning January 9 through January 16, residents can bring real Christmas trees to the warehouse parking lot across from the Department of Agriculture’s main building in Mangilao. The trees will be processed into biochar, a charcoal-like supplement to soil that will be used for native tree nurseries and restoration projects.

In exchange, participants will receive a free native tree seedling. Also offered are guava, calamansi, garlic vine and avocado tree seedlings.

Officials remind the public that burning Christmas trees can be dangerous, especially during windy, dry conditions when embers can easily spread and spark fires.

Trees must be completely clean, no ornaments, lights, or tinsel. Artificial trees will not be accepted. Trees will only be accepted during the following scheduled hours.

The Christmas Tree Exchange runs:

Friday, January 9: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, January 10–11: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, January 12–16: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For residents unable to participate, Christmas trees and other green waste can also be disposed of at several private facilities around the island for a fee.

For more information, see links to Guam EPA's recycling guide and Guam's Solid Waste Authority below: https://www.guamsolidwasteauthority.com/gswa-residential-trash-services  

https://epa.guam.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-Recycling-Guide-SEPT2023.pdf

Residents can also contact the Forestry and Soil Resources Division at 671-300-7977 or email [email protected].