Improper Tree Disposal Spreads Invasive Pests In Minnesota

There's nothing quite like a real Christmas tree. That smell of pine brings back memories, and there's a tradition about finding the perfect Christmas tree. When the holidays are over, it's time to get those trees out of the house, but did you know that Christmas trees are one of the worst ways to transfer invasive species?

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is urging Minnesotans to properly dispose of their Christmas trees. Simply throwing an old tree in the woods or in your backyard brush is one of the ways invasive species spread.

It's not just trees, either. Wreaths, boughs, cut vines, shrubs, and plants can also spread invasive insects, weeds, and other pathogens. Elongate hemlock scale, boxwood blight, round leaf bittersweet, spongy moth, brown marmorated stink bug, spotted lanternfly, and Japanese maple scale are all invasive species that can be spread with your Christmas decorations.

Most people are aware of the dangers of transferring firewood from one location to another. It's the same type of risk when you discard Christmas trees at another location.

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The best option is to use your curbside tree collection or find a designated drop-off site nearest to you. The Minnesota DNR has a map of compost and drop-off locations online. Help stop the spread of invasive species and properly dispose of your Christmas trees and organic decorations.

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