Mattapoisett Farm Makes Good Use of Old Christmas Trees

In the midst of packing away the decorations in an effort to de-Christmas your home, think twice before getting rid of your tree.

It's a popular week to dismantle the décor and many will stick to the tradition of their normal disposal routine: throwing your tree to the curb or in the woods.

One local farm in Mattapoisett is providing another option: a sweet snack for their animals.

"Goats are the main eaters of the trees. The alpacas do eat some. The cows enjoy playing with them," said Jeff Paine, owner of Pine Meadow Alpacas.

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Over the past five years, the farm has been accepting donations of old Christmas trees to be dropped off and consumed by its farm friends. Paine said not only do the goats enjoy the tasty treat, it also very healthy and acts as a natural de-wormer. Who knew?

"The goats eat all the needles and stems and we give the trunk to our porcupine," he said.

If you're interested in providing a seasonal snack to the animals at Pine Meadow Alpacas, Paine and his family accept donations any day of the week, but add a piece of very important information.

"We ask for no tinsel," he said.

So if you donned the silvery stuff on your tree this year, please dispose elsewhere, but if you're like me and you went with the traditional ornaments and lights, you're in the clear.

Drop off your tree at the gate near their house located on the farm at your convenience. Pine Meadow Alpacas is located at 109 Marion Road in Mattapoisett.

If you're curious as to how the cows play with the trees, give the farm's Facebook page a follow to see cute videos and photos of the goats enjoying your generosity.