PNM, Rio Rancho offer free Christmas tree recycling

PNM is partnering with the cities of Rio Rancho and Albuquerque to offer free Christmas tree recycling.

More than 10,000 trees are expected to be recycled at the four New Mexico sites. This will save valuable landfill space while also generating water-savings and protective mulch to help keep New Mexico beautiful and environmentally friendly.

Crews from PNM’s Vegetation Management, city of Albuquerque’s Solid Waste Management Department and Rio Rancho’s Keep Rio Rancho Beautiful Division will grind the trees into mulch, which can be used to provide a better growing environment for plants in city common areas and residential landscapes. The public can also pick up free mulch from the trees at four of the five recycling locations while supplies last.

Tree cycling locations and dates:

Rio Rancho

• Dec. 26 to Jan. 8, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Rio Rancho Sports Complex, 3501 High Resort Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho

Albuquerque

• Dec. 26 to Jan. 8, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Eagle Rock Convenience Center, 6301 Eagle Rock NE, Albuquerque
  • Ladera Golf Course, 3401 Ladera Drive NW, Albuquerque
  • Montessa Park Convenience Center, 3512 Los Picaros SE, Albuquerque

There is a limit of five trees per resident. Commercial quantities will not be accepted. Only real trees will be accepted — no artificial trees — and trees must have all decorations removed. For more information, call 311, TTY 711 or visit cabq.gov/solidwaste