(ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) – PNM, and the cities of Albuquerque and Rio Rancho are offering free Christmas tree recycling starting on Jan. 2, 2015, at four locations until Jan. 11, 2015. This marks the 23rd year PNM has donated time and equipment for this recycling event.

More than 20,000 trees are expected to be recycled at all of the New Mexico sites during the days following Christmas, saving valuable landfill space, generating water-saving and protective mulch.

Crews from PNM Vegetation Management, City of Albuquerque's Solid Waste Management Department and Rio Rancho's Keep Rio Rancho Beautiful Division will grind the trees into mulch, which can then be used to provide a better growing environment for plants in city common areas and residential landscapes.

We will accept trees that have removed decorations, tinsel, tree spikes and stands.

Trees will be accepted for nine days from Jan. 2 through Jan. 11, 2015, between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the following locations:
· Montessa Park Convenience Center, 3512 Los Picaros SE, Albuquerque
· Eagle Rock Convenience Center, 6301 Eagle Rock NE, Albuquerque
· Ladera Golf Course, Coors and Ladera NW, Albuquerque
· Rio Rancho Sports Complex, 3501 High Resort Blvd., Rio Rancho (Open 24 hours)