The scent of evergreen boughs was in the air at several Semiahmoo Peninsula locations over the weekend, as many chose to say goodbye to their 2023 Christmas trees at tree-chipping and disposal events.
In South Surrey on Saturday (Jan. 6), there was a near-constant flow of vehicles dropping off trees to add to the pile from last week’s (Dec. 30) event at the Little Campbell River Hatchery, operated by the Semiahmoo Fish and Game Club.
The tree chips from the donated trees will be scattered around the property as mulch.
Donations received will help build a new hatchery, which was damaged in November 2021, when heavy rains caused region-wide flooding.
READ ALSO: Campaign to build new hatchery on Little Campbell River officially underway
In White Rock, firefighters continued their 25-year tree-chipping tradition with Tall Timber Tree Services, setting up once again at Centennial Area, where a steady stream of vehicles drove through to drop off their tannenbaum for a sustainable future.
“It’s been pretty steady,” said Andrew Cram, president of the White Rock Firefighters Local 2407, at the event.
“It’s something we’ve done every year for many years… all the proceeds raised go back to the community.”
Donations collected benefit the White Rock Firefighters Charity Association, which raises funds for local charities and the BC Professional Firefighters’ Association Burn Fund.
This year, tree chipping patrons were generous and dug deep into their pockets, donating more than $4,200 to help.
Journey Grad was also offering tree collection and disposal Dec. 30 and 31 as well as Jan. 1, 6 and 7, with one more event scheduled for Jan. 13, as part of fundraising efforts by members of a youth group at Peace Portal Church.
Donations collected will go towards the Grade 12 students’ July 2024 grad trip.
Visit journeygrad.com or email journeygrad@gmail.com to book a pickup.
– with files from Tracy Holmes
www.surreynowleader.com
https://www.surreynowleader.com/community/semiahmoo-peninsula-residents-bid-a-sustainable-farewell-to-christmas-trees-7294063
