The City of Manitowoc Forestry Division will continue its Christmas tree exchange initiative in January 2026, offering residents the chance to swap their used fresh cut Christmas trees for a young deciduous tree seedling, commonly called a “whip.” The program is part of ongoing efforts to restore urban tree cover that was lost due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, which severely affected local ash trees.
Residents interested in participating can bring their undecorated and unbagged Christmas trees to the Manitowoc County Recycling Center at 3000 Basswood Road during January. Trees taller than six feet must be cut in half before drop-off. Participants are required to fill out and sign a form at the main office during regular hours, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Those who qualify will receive vouchers by mail in March, which can be exchanged for a whip between April 24 (Arbor Day) and May 22, 2026, at the recycling center. Each household is limited to one voucher per address, with only 75 vouchers available on a first-come, first-served basis. Species selection will also depend on availability. The whips are not recommended for planting as terrace trees due to their size.
Residents seeking updates about city activities can follow the City of Manitowoc’s Facebook page or sign up for notifications via text or email through www.manitowoc.org/notifyme. There is also an app available on both major platforms where users can subscribe to alerts.
For further details about the program or other forestry services, residents may contact the Forestry Division by phone during business hours or visit www.manitowoc.org/forestry.
