Tree-Made Fish Habitats

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is asking residents to recycle real Christmas trees through its Habitat for the Holidays program. Instead of throwing trees away, people can drop off clean, undecorated evergreen trees at Lake Pickthorne near Holland Bottoms or at Riverview Park Access on the Arkansas River in North Little Rock. Artificial trees are not accepted.

Anglers may use the free trees to create underwater fish habitat in lakes and ponds. Biologists recommend weighting the trees with cinder blocks or sandbags tied on with a strong cord so they sink and stay in place. Anyone placing trees in public waters should first check with the lake owner or managing agency, as some lakes require permission.

Placing several trees together works best, since single trees break down quickly. Underwater, the trees provide shelter for small fish and baitfish, helping them avoid predators and grow. As the trees decay, they also support algae and insects that form the base of the aquatic food chain.

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