Corps to Accept Christmas Trees for Fish Habitats

By MJ Kneiser, WLHR

Most of us who put up a live Christmas tree are not quite ready to take it down, but when you do, there’s a way to recycle it that will not only help the environment, but fish.

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Hartwell Lake Project Office will again accept natural Christmas trees for recycling beginning today through Jan. 26, 2020.

The recycled trees will be used as fish attractors in Hartwell Lake.

Trees will be tied in bundles, weighted with concrete anchors, and then submerged in various locations marked with fish attractor buoys.

Corps Natural Resources Specialist Jess Fleming tells WLHR News small trees and brush provide cover for fish, particularly as a nursery for juvenile fish,.

Fleming said in addition, they provide habitat for aquatic insects which serve as an essential food source during the early developmental stages of most fish species.

In our area trees can be dropped off at Big Oaks Recreation Center in Hartwell and at the Poplar Springs boat ramp in Gumlog.

In South Carolina, you can drop off your tree at Twin Lakes and Friendship boat ramps.

Additionally, Mount Lebanon Elementary School in Pendleton, South Carolina, will also serve as a drop-off location beginning today through January 17.

Donated trees can also be picked up by fishermen any time for personal use.

Fleming said trees should be anchored in 8-12 feet of water.

However he said do not place Christmas trees in the main lake channel or around private docks.

Now this tree recycling is for real Christmas trees only – do not bring your artificial tree.

Also, remember to remove all ornaments, garland, lights and tinsel before you bring your tree for recycling.

If you have any questions you can contact the Hartwell Lake Operations Project Manager’s Office toll free at 888-893-0678, or visit their website.