MDC Encouraging Recycling of Christmas Trees

The Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging recycling of real Christmas trees as habitat for fish and wildlife.

Jamie Koehler, Assistant Manager of MDC’s Cape Nature Center, says real Christmas trees can be used to provide shelter to local fish and wildlife.

Christmas trees can be used to improve habitat in ponds, lakes, or even a back yard.

When placed in a pond or lake, Christmas trees provide added brush that gives fish resting areas, shade, and places to hide from predators.

Large trees make great fish habitat, but if Christmas trees are small, they’re still useful, especially when placed in a pond or lake together.

Above water, the trees can be recycled for backyard habitat for small wildlife such as rabbits and reptiles.