Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is collecting live Christmas trees to enhance fish habitats in local lakes. These trees, once collected, will be bundled, weighted, and submerged to create essential environments for various fish species. This initiative also encourages algae growth that supports insects, which in turn attract fish for anglers. The submerged trees will decompose naturally over time.

Maps and coordinates detailing the locations of these tree habitats can be accessed online or obtained from each lake's biologist. For those interested in participating, information on drop-off locations and instructions can be found on the IDNR Office of Fisheries website. It is important to note that trees should only be deposited at designated sites during specified dates and must be free from stands, lights, ornaments, and tinsel. Wreaths and garlands are not accepted.

Drop-off points have been set up across several counties with specific dates:

- Clinton County: Carlyle Lake Dam East boat ramp from December 26 to January 5.

- Fayette County: Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area from December 28 to January 19.

- Jasper County: Newton State Fish and Wildlife Area and Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area both available from December 28 to January 19.

- Lawrence County: Red Hills State Park from December 28 to January 19.

- Marion County: City of Centralia Public Works Building and Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area both open from December 28 to January 19.

- Moultrie County: Howy's Lakeside Gas Station accepting trees until March 1.

- Richland County: Olney Municipal Parking Lot open until January 19.

- Shelby County: Johnstowne Mall accepting trees until March 1; Lake Mattoon Marina open until January 31.

- Stephenson County: Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park accepting trees until January 5.

- Wabash County: Beall Woods State Park open for drop-offs until January 19.

- Wayne County: Sam Dale State Fish and Wildlife Area also accepting trees until January 19.