MetroParks of Butler County Announces Dates for the 2025-2026 Holiday Light & Christmas Tree Recycling Program
MetroParks of Butler County, in collaboration with Cohen Recycling, is pleased to launch its annual FREE Holiday Light Recycling Program and Christmas Tree Recycling Program for the 2025–2026 holiday season. Both programs are open to all community members, Butler County residents and non-residents alike.
Holiday Light Recycling: December 1st - February 1st
MetroParks’ continued partnership with Cohen Recycling provides an easy, eco-friendly disposal option for unwanted or non-functioning holiday lights. By recycling strands of lights instead of throwing them away, participants help prevent non-biodegradable materials from entering landfills. The copper, plastic, and other components found in holiday lights can be reclaimed and repurposed, supporting a more circular and sustainable use of resources.
Christmas Tree Recycling: December 26th – February 1st
The Christmas Tree recycling program allows community members to recycle natural Christmas trees at the same drop-off locations used for the holiday light collection. All trees received will be reused as fish habitat in MetroParks’ lakes and ponds.Participants should ensure trees are completely free of decorations, including ornaments, tinsel, lights, and tree stands.
How to Participate
Holiday lights and natural Christmas trees may be dropped off at any of the following MetroParks locations during regular park hours:
- Voice of America MetroPark – 7850 VOA Park Dr., West Chester, OH 45069
- Rentschler Forest MetroPark – 5701 Reigart Rd., Hamilton, OH 45011
- Timberman Ridge MetroPark – 1976 Timberman Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
- Meadow Ridge MetroPark – 5101 Circle Pkwy., Middletown, OH 45042
“These annual recycling programs highlight MetroParks’ commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship,” said Katie Ely-Wood, Communications Manager. “By providing accessible disposal options, we’re helping our community reduce waste during one of the most resource-intensive times of the year. Our ongoing partnership with Cohen Recycling makes this work possible and supports a healthier environment for all who enjoy Butler County’s parks.”
For more information about MetroParks’ ongoing conservation efforts, click here.-
December 2025 Park Closures
Dec 2, 2025, 08:57 AM
Sycamore Bluffs MetroPark and the Great Miami River Trail trailheads are currently closed due to snow.
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MetroParks Cashless Beginning 1/1/26
Nov 26, 2025, 10:44 AM
MetroParks is keeping it cashless beginning 1/1/26. Credit and debit cards are welcome at MetroParks' Administrative Office and Voice of America MetroPark Welcome Center. Cash will still be accepted for on-site program registration.
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2025-2026 Seasonal Park Closures
Nov 10, 2025, 10:34 AM
The following parks and facilities will be closed for the 2025-2026 winter season: -Pioneer Church -Flush restrooms at Rentschler Forest and Meadow Ridge MetroParks -Sebald MetroPark Equestrian Trails (November 15-April 14)
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Salamander Run MetroPark Trail Closures
Sep 24, 2025, 15:16 PM
A portion of the Redback Salamander Trail is closed 9/25/25-2/3/26 to facilitate controlled bowhunting. Visit https://www.yourmetroparks.net/news-alerts/article/2025/09/24/salamander-run-metropark-trail-closures for a trail map.
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Tylersville Trail Closures 9/2-11/26
Aug 29, 2025, 15:18 PM
Voice of America MetroParks' Tylersville Trail will be closed west of Field 20 to Crosley Boulevard September 2nd - November 26th to facilitate USS Cincinnati construction.
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Mill Race Preserve MetroPark Closure
May 27, 2025, 09:29 AM
Beginning May 27th, restoration work on the Black Covered Bridge will close the entrance to Mill Race Preserve MetroPark. The park can be accessed via the Oxford Area Trail System to the east.
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Sebald MetroPark Closures
May 12, 2025, 09:52 AM
The Ridge Trail at Sebald MetroParks is closed due to trail rerouting work.
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Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trail Closures
Nov 12, 2024, 11:08 AM
Portions of the Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trails will be closed for trail rerouting work. Trail closures will be marked with signs and barricades.