Aart, I understand your concern. And if the OP has that concern they can let them age for a few months of course. But free is often the only way someone can afford to cover a pen. Cheapest rate around here for aged wood chips is $10/yard, if you're lucky, and that only pops up on CL once or twice a year (plus delivery! Usually $40....). $20/yard is more common. No way I could afford the 14 yards of wood chips for my pen that way. Not for $3 worth of chicken eggs once or twice a week.
OP, it does sound like you might have space to store them for six months while they dry out, so it might not be a bad idea for you.
I suggest finding out what company trims the trees for your city/county/township. That's what I did! They have places to dump but they have to drive back to them. If they're already working in your area, they're very likely to drive to your house to dump instead!
If you need to buy mulch make sure you're getting natural undyed mulch. The dyes are no bueno for livestock.
OP, it does sound like you might have space to store them for six months while they dry out, so it might not be a bad idea for you.
I suggest finding out what company trims the trees for your city/county/township. That's what I did! They have places to dump but they have to drive back to them. If they're already working in your area, they're very likely to drive to your house to dump instead!
If you need to buy mulch make sure you're getting natural undyed mulch. The dyes are no bueno for livestock.