IDNR collecting discarded Christmas trees for fish habitat

Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) fisheries biologists are collecting live Christmas trees to be used as fish habitat in local lakes after the holidays.

The collected trees will be bundled together, weighted, and submerged at lakes, providing critical habitat for multiple fish species and promoting algae growth for insects that attract fish for anglers. The trees will naturally decompose over time.

Maps and coordinates of the tree habitat locations are available online or from each lake's biologist. Visit the IDNR Office of Fisheries website for drop-off location information and instructions. Trees should be placed only in the designated area for each site and only during the designated drop-off dates. Trees must be free of stands, lights, ornaments, and tinsel. Wreaths and garlands will not be accepted.

Drop-off locations and dates include the following: 

Jasper County

Newton State Fish and Wildlife Area

Dec. 28 to Jan. 19

Place trees at designated area on northwest side of the parking lot near boat ramp.

Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area

Dec. 28 to Jan. 19

Place trees in designated area near southwest boat ramp.

Lawrence County

Red Hills State Park

Dec. 28 to Jan. 19

Richland County

Olney Municipal Parking Lot

Dec. 28 to Jan. 19

Place trees in designated area northeast corner of parking lot. 

Wabash County

Beall Woods State Park

Dec. 28 to Jan. 19

Place trees in designated area near the boat ramp. 

Wayne County

Sam Dale State Fish and Wildlife Area

Dec. 28 to Jan. 19

Place trees in designated area near the boat ramp.