Trees for Trout Collection Event

Tis the season to improve river habitats!

DEM Division of Fish and Wildlife is once again partnering with Trout Unlimited Rhode Island Chapter on a habitat restoration program called “Trees for Trout.”

This project uses recycled Christmas trees to improve habitat for wild trout and other aquatic organisms. Strategic placement of the trees helps restore streams and rivers that have become wide and shallow due to flooding and storms, provide refuge habitat, and stabilize stream banks. Known as “conifer revetments,” the trees trap sediment and decompose to gradually become part of the banks themselves. The tree branches along the edges in the water offer protection for small trout and other aquatic animals seeking a place to hide from predators.

Please only drop off real trees, not fake ones or trees sprayed with fire-retardant chemicals. All decorations and lights, as well as the stand, must be removed before the tree is dropped off. We can only accept whole conifers, please do not bring tree trimmings.

Thank you to everyone who participated last year. Let’s make this another success!

Can’t make it? For help with disposal, visit: atoz.rirrc.org/items/real-christmas-trees