SPRINGFIELD – 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.
Below is a list of drop-off locations for our region:
Clinton County
Spillway Recreation Area
Dec. 26 to March 1
Place trees in area designated by signage near Little Prairie Nature Trail.
Plant Land Garden Center
Dec. 26 to March 1
Place trees in area designated by signage.
Fayette County
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area
Dec. 27 to Jan. 18
Place trees at designated area near boat ramp.
Marion County
City of Centralia, Public Works Building
Dec. 27 to Jan. 18
Place trees near the south gate at 114 E. Fifth St.
Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area
Dec. 27 to Jan. 18
Place trees near in the designated area near the boat ramp.
Wayne County
Sam Dale State Fish and Wildlife Area
Dec. 27 to Jan. 18
Place trees in designated area near the boat ramp.
