With the arrival of fall, it’s time to prune trees and shrubs. Instead of placing tree branches out for trash collection, residents can recycle them at the Highlands Ranch Metro District’s free event on Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of Shea Stadium at Redstone Park, 3270 Redstone Park Circle.

According to information provided by the metro district, tree limbs less than 12 inches in diameter and woody plant materials will be accepted at the recycling event. The metro district will not accept:

• Finished lumber

• Non-woody material

• Grass clippings

• Sod and root balls.

Free mulch will also be available to Highlands Ranch residents. According to the metro district, putting a three- to five-inch layer of mulch down in late autumn or early winter has several benefits to trees and plants. Mulch creates a protective layer for newly established tree roots while providing nutrients and creating high-quality soil texture as it decomposes.

In addition to the fall recycling event, the metro district offers Christmas tree recycling from late December through mid-January. For more information about tree recycling in Highlands Ranch, call 303-791-2710 or email info@highlandsranch.org.