TOMS RIVER, N.J. – As National Take Down the Christmas Tree Day arrives today, Ocean County residents are being reminded to pack away the decorations, haul out the tree, and give it a second life through the county’s recycling program. The day, observed every January 6, signals the traditional end of the Christmas season, aligning with the Christian feast of Epiphany, when the Magi are said to have visited the newborn Jesus.
Across Ocean County, natural Christmas trees can be dropped off for recycling through the Parks and Recreation Department until January 31. The county’s program transforms the trees into mulch used for park projects and landscaping, providing a sustainable way to dispose of holiday greenery.
Residents can bring stripped, natural trees—free of lights, ornaments, tinsel, stands, or plastic bags—to one of several designated county parks, including Cattus Island County Park in Toms River, Cloverdale Farm County Park in Barnegat, Wells Mills County Park in Waretown, and Ocean County Park in Lakewood. Other collection sites include Beaver Dam County Park in Point Pleasant, Jake Branch County Park in Beachwood, Mill Creek County Park in Berkeley, Enos Pond County Park in Lacey, Patriots County Park in Jackson, Robert J. Miller Airpark in Berkeley, and Freedom Fields County Park in Little Egg Harbor. County golf courses such as Forge Pond and Atlantis are also participating locations.
For those who prefer to recycle their trees year-round, the county’s two main recycling centers—at 535 South Oberlin Avenue in Lakewood and 379 Haywood Road in Stafford Township—are open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Both sites accept natural trees and other recyclables from residents.
Curbside tree collection varies by town, and local residents are encouraged to check with their municipal Department of Public Works for schedules or additional drop-off sites.
Today’s observance is more than just a cue to clean up after the holidays—it’s a reminder that a sustainable start to the new year begins with small steps, like giving your Christmas tree a new purpose.
