Christmas is over, and families across Whatcom County are left with trees that have worn out their welcome.

Residents have a few options for proper disposal of those trees, including one that has become a Christmas tradition in its own right.

Once again, Boy Scout troops will cart off your holiday evergreen for a donation.

This year's pickup day is Saturday, Jan. 7. Trees should be on the curb by 8 a.m. and cleared of tinsel, stands and decorations.

There's no need to call ahead in some communities. Automatic pickup is available in Bellingham, Ferndale, Blaine, Lynden and Everson.

People in Birch Bay, Maple Falls and Kendall can request a pickup by calling Phil McAfee, 360-733-1513.

Scouts will knock on doors requesting donations. The money helps children who can't afford camp fees and supplies. Don't leave the donation with the tree, McAfee said.

The trees picked up by the scouts are chipped and used as mulch in city parks.

The disposal company SSC offers a few options. Customers participating in SSC's Food Plus! program can place their tree inside their toter at no additional cost. If the tree is too big, it can be set beside the toter. In that case, pickup will cost $6 per tree up to eight feet long.

SSC customers who don't use Food Plus! can arrange pickup for a $6 fee at 360-734-3490.

Another option is to take the tree to the recycling center and transfer station at 1001 Roeder Ave., Bellingham. The cost is $6, and again trees must be no taller than eight feet.

Nooksack Valley Disposal accepts trees of any size for $2 at its facility, 250 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to noon.??