ALBANY — If your city, town, village or private trash hauler doesn’t recycle old Christmas trees, the state Department of Environmental Conservation says homeowners can give a gift to nature by doing it themselves.

“Go green after taking down your Christmas tree this year,” the DEC urges.

“Keep your tree out of the landfill and help extend holiday cheer to wildlife and compost heaps far and near,” the DEC announcement on its social media platforms continues.

Among the ways to help nature include the following:

Create a bird habitat. If you have space in your yard, consider using your tree as a brush pile for birds. Not only will the pile provide extra shelter for feathered friends during the cold winter months, but it’ll also give you some excellent backyard bird-watching opportunities!

Municipal collection for mulch and compost. Your municipality may offer a free tree collection or recycling program that will turn your tree into mulch or compost. Remember to remove all lights and decorations first. Contact your local department of public works to find out about a collection event in your community; or

Donate to farms. Some farms accept Christmas trees for their goats to munch on the vitamin C rich needles. Be sure to confirm that the farm near you is currently accepting Christmas trees before considering this option.

For additional information, visit the state DEC website at https://www.dec.ny.gov.