King County encourages residents to take advantage of the many options for recycling Christmas trees, instead of throwing the tree in the garbage.

Recycling the tree is better for the environment, costs less than putting it in with the garbage, and leaves space in the county's landfill for the waste that really needs to go there.

The King County Solid Waste Division recommends these Christmas tree recycling options:

Curbside pickup: If you have curbside yard waste collection service, you can place your tree at the curb with your regular yard waste. Restrictions vary, so call your city or garbage hauler for information.

Private companies: Many private yard waste facilities in King County collect Christmas trees for recycling - at rates much cheaper than disposal. Visit King County's "What Do I Do With...?" Web site at http://your.kingcounty.gov/solidwaste/wdidw/material.asp Type "Christmas tree" in the search box and click the "Search" button for a list of private companies that accept Christmas trees.

Fundraising events: Many community groups sponsor Christmas tree-cycling fundraising events. For a small donation, they will deliver your tree to a commercial recycler.

Flyers will be available in your neighborhood during the holiday season. By recycling at these events, you can support a worthy cause while helping the environment.

Boy Scout Troop 375 will be recycling trees at Herr Backyard Garden Center, 107 S.W. 160th St. in Burien on Jan. 3 and 4 from 9 a.m.- 3p.m. Donation per tree is $5.