Steamboat Springs, Colorado–April 14, 2026-As cleanup begins across the Yampa Valley, residents are invited to take part in a community chipping event designed to reduce wildfire risk and keep organic material out of the landfill.
The city and the Routt County Wildfire Mitigation Council are partnering to offer a tree debris chipping day on May 15, 2026, providing residents with a simple way to dispose of broken branches, limbs, and storm-downed vegetation.
“This is the ideal time of year to address winter-damaged vegetation before fire season begins,” said Community Recycling Coordinator Alicia Archibald. “This program helps residents reduce wildfire fuels while keeping organic material in productive local use.”
Residents may drop off branches, limbs and other eligible wood debris from 8 am to 3 pm at the Steamboat Ski Resort Meadows parking lot. Commercial operators are not allowed. Material must meet program guidelines.
All material will be chipped on-site. Mulch will be used in the See Me Compost program, with remaining material sent to the Twin Apex biosolids composting operation at the Steamboat Eco Center in Milner.
“Managing vegetation around homes is one of the most effective, low-cost steps property owners can take to reduce wildfire risk,” said Josh Hankes, executive director of the Routt County Wildfire Mitigation Council. “We encourage residents to take advantage of this opportunity as conditions will surely continue to dry out.”
Residents who cannot attend may use the Milner Landfill organics program at $55 per ton, or take advantage of discounted monthly drop-off days held the fourth Friday of each month from May through November.
This community event reflects a shared commitment to wildfire resilience, environmental stewardship, and keeping valuable organic materials working for the benefit of the local community.
Officials also remind residents that vegetation left in public rights of way may be subject to enforcement and fines.
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Contact
Email Alicia Archibald, Community Recycling Coordinator, City of Steamboat Springs, or call 719-600-8664
Email Josh Hankes, Executive Director, Routt County Wildfire Mitigation Council, or call 201-927-1313
Email Michael Lane, Marketing & Communications Manager, City of Steamboat Springs, or call 970-871-8220