Bozeman’s Christmas Tree Recycling Makes Cleanup Easier In 2026

Ok folks, the holidays have come and gone, and we are officially rocking and rolling with 2026. If you are anything like me, you might be turning a blind eye to the Christmas tree that is still standing in the corner of the living room. The house always feels a little emptier and less festive once it comes down, but let’s be honest, a big part of the hesitation is the chore itself. Pulling off ornaments, dealing with needles everywhere, and figuring out where that tree is supposed to go next is enough to make anyone procrastinate.

Here is some good news that might make the process easier and a lot more rewarding. In Bozeman, your old Christmas tree does not have to end up in a landfill. The City of Bozeman Forestry Division offers a post-holiday tree recycling program that turns used trees into compost and mulch for city parks. It is a simple way to give your tree a second life while helping maintain local green spaces.

To participate, all you need to do is remove every ornament, light, wire, and strand of tinsel before dropping it off. Trees should be left whole since they are easier for the equipment to handle. Wreaths and garlands are not accepted, so those will need to be disposed of separately. Recycling locations are open for the 2025 to 2026 season and include the Softball Complex off Haggerty Lane, Gallatin Valley Regional Park near the BMX tracks, and Christie Fields off East Mason Street. These sites will remain open through February 2026.

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So when you finally decide to take that tree down, know that it can still do some good long after the lights are packed away. Good luck!