Inspired tree recycling...
Have you recycled your Christmas tree yet? Chances are you have. Maybe you took it to your local tree recycling depot where they chip the trees and use it as mulch. If you have a pond perhaps you sunk it into your pond as a refuge and feeding area for fish. Or, like me, you placed it in your garden to enhance your wildlife habitat. But, do you ever wonder what happens to all those trees that don't get sold at tree lots, nurseries or the big box stores? This week my kids and I went to Zoo Atlanta where we found out about one Atlanta purveyor who had the forethought to donate his remaining trees to the Zoo. What genius! The animals LOVE them!
The Black Rhino eagerly munched away at the tree which had been thrown in its yard. It even picked up the entire tree with its horns and proudly carried it around.
The African Elephant chomped happily away at the tree limbs too.
And who knew that Red Kangaroos would devour them?
Of course one would expect the goats and sheep in the petting zoo to like just about anything and so it was no surprise that they were crazy over these trees. They just gorged on them en masse!
I talked with one of the zoo keepers who explained that trees from people's homes couldn't be used since they stand in water for weeks and they are usually dried out by the time they get taken down. Animals really prefer fresh trees.
So, my plan is to get the word out. Many if not most states have a ban on trees in landfills and have recycling options for Christmas trees...such as soil erosion barriers, fish feeders or mulch for paths and hiking trails. So why not consider encouraging your local Christmas tree lot entrepreneur, tree farmer or even the big box stores to donate their unsold trees to the local zoo. It helps out the zoo with feed costs, puts the trees to good use and they become good stewards of the community. It is a win-win for all.
The Black Rhino eagerly munched away at the tree which had been thrown in its yard. It even picked up the entire tree with its horns and proudly carried it around.
The African Elephant chomped happily away at the tree limbs too.
And who knew that Red Kangaroos would devour them?
Of course one would expect the goats and sheep in the petting zoo to like just about anything and so it was no surprise that they were crazy over these trees. They just gorged on them en masse!
I talked with one of the zoo keepers who explained that trees from people's homes couldn't be used since they stand in water for weeks and they are usually dried out by the time they get taken down. Animals really prefer fresh trees.
So, my plan is to get the word out. Many if not most states have a ban on trees in landfills and have recycling options for Christmas trees...such as soil erosion barriers, fish feeders or mulch for paths and hiking trails. So why not consider encouraging your local Christmas tree lot entrepreneur, tree farmer or even the big box stores to donate their unsold trees to the local zoo. It helps out the zoo with feed costs, puts the trees to good use and they become good stewards of the community. It is a win-win for all.
