The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center Announces a Post Holiday Tree Recycling Program

The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center will be accepting used, live Christmas trees this year beginning as early as December 26th. Trees can be dropped off on the southeast side of Gage Park, just east of the horseshoe court parking lot inside Gage Park.

When entering Gage Park from the 10 th street entrance, take your first right on Munn Memorial Drive heading northwest. Look for the orange snow fence near the horseshoe courts and place your tree in the grass area.

“There is no need to make an appointment,” said Fawn Moser, Zoo Director. “We will find them and get them to the animals that can use them. Thank you for your generous donation!”

For the safety of the animals, trees to be able to be used by the zoo animals, the trees must be free of ornaments, hooks, tinsel, tree stands and not in plastic bags.

Animals that benefit from donated trees include lions, tigers, owls, mountain lions, giraffes, black bears, painted dogs, and many others.

Once the animals have had plenty of fun with the varieties of conifers donated, they will be ground up through a chipper and made into mulch for continued reuse.

The zoo will accept the trees through Jan. 8 th 2024.