The New Year has started, and the Christmas Trees are hitting the curb. Before you throw out your Christmas Tree, that took who knows how long to grow, which was only standing in your house or apartment for a few weeks or days, there is a very special way to throw it away: strip it. Christmas trees must be clean of all ornaments and lights before you drag it to the curb. The City of Beacon’s Highway Department will pick it up for you, and turn it into mulch.

Is there a deadline for when you can throw away your Christmas tree? Can you keep it up for all of January if you wish? ALBB reached out to the City of Beacon, and the Mayor’s Assistant, Ben Swanson responded: “There is not a set date for ending pickup of holiday trees at this time, and the crews' work to gather them is indeed ongoing!”

Well that’s good news. So what about regular branches and brush from the yards? Are those picked up all year? Ben answered: “Brush pickup is year-round, as time allows for our workers!”

Which means that, if you have leaves or grass or other things that can fit into a leaf bag, put it into a leaf bag and haul it to the curb. Beacon’s Highway Department will take it away for you to the Transfer Station (aka The Dump).