City of Coos Bay release – With Christmas 2023 in our past and the New Year underway, many in our community spent time un-decking the halls and putting holiday decorations back into Storage. But what do you do with the old Christmas tree? In an effort to rid homes within the community of a potential fire hazard, both the Coos Bay and North Bend Fire Departments will again be picking up Christmas trees within the city limits of Coos Bay and North Bend (respectively) on Saturday January 6, 2024. The fire departments request that you place your tree near the curb before 8 am. There is no need to call and request removal of your tree as fire department members will pick up all trees that are placed near the curb. The collected trees will be brought to Les’ Sanitation. Most of the trees will be ground into mulch, but some will be utilized by ODFW for stream enhancement, bank stabilization and improving fish habitat. The fire departments are providing this service at no cost but would appreciate a canned food donation. Donations received this year will be passed along to the South Coast Gospel Mission to further their work with individuals and families in our community that need assistance.