TEXAS - It brought you cheer this season, but it's time to start thinking about taking your Christmas tree down.

This year, customers can drop off trees, wreaths and holly at Texas Disposal Systems centers. Organic items can be composted and turned into mulch that go right back into your community.

TDS says it's important to make sure your tree is prepped before it's recycled.  

"Be sure, before your drop your items off, that they are clean of any non-organic materials; no tinsel, no lights, no ornaments, nothing metal, no contaminants. If you do decide to bring something with contaminants, there will be a $45 contamination fee," said Wendy Bradley, of Texas Disposal Systems.

Organic holiday decorations, along with wrapping paper and boxes, should also be recycled.

All TDS landfill and composting sites are available for drop-off during normal business hours. Drop off locations in the Austin and San Antonio areas can be found on the TDS website.