I know it’s not Christmas yet, but I need to ask you this question. What will you do with your tree when the holiday is over?
I realize you’re probably rushing around with last-minute shopping and gift-wrapping duty, but I had to ask. I’m assuming you’re responsible and will dispose of wrapping paper and gift boxes in the recycle bin, right?
Well, before your tree loses its fresh pine scent and needles, make a plan to upcycle that bush to a waterfront view. Who doesn’t like an oceanfront home?
Your tree can have a second life or greater purpose by acting as a natural sand fence while helping to build up sand dunes. The wood and branches help with erosion control, and the nutrients are beneficial for the beach grass.
Last year, Chicho’s Pizza held its first annual tree drive. The restaurant partnered with Skimmunity House, a group that promotes skimboarding, and collected more than 500 trees and delivered them to the Outer Banks in an effort to help beach and dune erosion.
It took 12 trailers to transport the trees to the parking lot of the Islander Motel in Nags Head, North Carolina, and Ocean Boulevard Bistro and Martini Bar in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.
Matt Potter, owner of the Oceanfront Chicho’s, said it was a sight to see all the trees traveling in trailers to the Outer Banks. Potter said he expected to collect 100 trees last year and ended up receiving 500. He hopes to double that amount this year.
Chicho’s partnered with Better Beaches OBX, which has been collecting trees since 2013 for use in dune restoration projects. Better Beaches OBX founder Donny King said his organization promotes beach maintenance and dune stabilization.
“Chicho’s did a great job last year,” King said. “Any amount of trees collected are appreciated.”
Chicho’s second annual tree drive runs from Dec. 26-Jan. 16. Trees can be dropped off at the Oceanfront Chicho’s, at 2820 Pacific Ave. Anyone who drops off a tree can also get a large cheese pizza for $7.99. If you need your tree picked up, email info@chichospizza.com.
If you want to keep the Christmas spirit, don’t let your beloved Christmas tree end up in a landfill. Let it retire in an oceanfront community.
Lee Belote, jlbelote@verizon.net
