BREA : Residents Asked to Recycle Trees

Along with glass, cans and paper, residents of Brea and Fullerton are requested to recycle one additional item--their Christmas trees.

The Brea Fire Department is asking that residents place their trees on the curb along with trash. Trees taller than 6 feet should be cut in half. Brea Disposal Inc. will turn the trees into compost and mulch.

Burning Christmas trees in the open is illegal and unsafe, fire officials said. The Brea Fire Department also urges residents not to burn Christmas trees and wrapping in fireplaces because dry evergreens burn fiercely and flames can flare out of control.

The special tree collection service in Brea will run today through Jan. 9.

Fullerton residents can take their Christmas trees to Lions Field today, Thursday and Friday , or on Jan. 2 and 3, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Lions Field is at 1440 N. Brea Blvd., east of Harbor Boulevard.

The trees will be ground up, and residents can return to the field on Jan. 4 to pick up mulch. Those who wish to pick up mulch should bring back sacks or boxes. Leftover mulch will be used on equestrian and recreation trails in the city.

Residents who choose to throw out the trees with the trash must first cut them in half if they are more than 6 feet tall.