SPANISH FORT, Ala. — Once the lights and decorations are taken off the branches of the Christmas trees the community can help the Boy Scouts and the environment by having their Christmas tree recycled.

Boy Scout Troop 109 will be picking up used Christmas trees for recycling on Dec. 29 and Jan. 5 to help raise money for their troop.

Curbside pickup will begin a 9 a.m., but other times can be scheduled. This is the second year for the annual event.

“We are hoping for a better turnout and to double what we made last year and help the environment,” Troop leader Gene Caldwell said. “Come out and support the local troop. The boys really need the money and love to help. We are looking for donations.”

Last year, recycling Christmas trees turned a profit of $600 for the Troop, which they put in a general fund.

They were able to purchase additional camping material and pay off a loan for a trailer with the money raised.

The funds also offset the $20 camping fee for boys that don’t have the money.

“I don’t want any of them left out,” Caldwell said.

Though they are requesting a donation of $10 for pickup, they will take other donated amounts.

“We are going to pick them up no matter what,” Caldwell said.

The boys can even remove the tree from the house or porch, Caldwell said. The county is providing a dumpster which will be located at the fire department, he said. The trees are then picked up and used for beach renourishment and along the shoreline on the bay which will help hold the beach together, Caldwell said.

Troop 109 was formed two and a half years ago for boys 11 to 18 years old and currently has 20 members. Providence United Methodist Church is the Troop sponsor.

To schedule a pickup call 626-4884 or Spanish Fort City Hall at 626-4884 or mail a check to Boy Scout Troop 109, 6 General Canby Dr., Spanish Fort, AL 36527.