Post-Christmas tree-cycling programs launch in Bellaire, West U

After-Christmas recycling programs are in place for residents of Bellaire and West University.

Bellaire has activated its annual tree-cycling program today (Monday, Dec. 27) and will continue collection through Jan. 14. Trees may be dropped off at a designated parking lot at the southeast corner of Baldwin Avenue and Edith Street in the southeast section of the city, near Newcastle Drive and Beechnut Street.

Trees must be stripped of all ornaments, tinsel, stands and lights, and flocked trees cannot be recycled.

Only trees that are dropped off will be recycled — ones left for curbside collection at homes will be treated as household waste and landfilled.

For more information, contact the Bellaire Public Works Department, 713-662-8170.

West University launches its curbside tree-cycling effort Tuesday (Dec. 28), continuing through Jan. 15.

The rules are the same about stripping the trees and flocked trees being banned — but West U’s solid waste crews pick up the trees and take them to a local composter to be recycled as mulch. Any trees violating the rules, though, will be hauled to the landfill with household waste.

Occasionally, the volume of trees left curbside means that they won’t be collected same-day, but West U asks for patience.

Any tree-cycling questions can be directed to Public Works at 713-662-5839 or emailed to pwinfo@westutx.gov.

In addition, West University serves as an auxiliary collection site for the Houston Zoo’s annual recycling of holiday string lights, with three dropoffs established in November that run through Jan. 15 — at City Hall, 3800 University Blvd.; Public Works, 3826 Amherst St.; and the West University Recreation Center, 4210 Bellaire Blvd.

Only strings of holiday lights are accepted — no hooks, floodlights or other Christmas decorations.