How can I donate my Christmas tree for the 'Trees for Trout' event?

You can drop off eligible Christmas trees at the Arcadia Check Station on Saturday, January 10th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact Rhode Island Trout Unlimited if donating five or more trees.

What are conifer revetments used for in Rhode Island rivers?

Conifer revetments, made from bundled Christmas trees, are used to rebuild eroding riverbanks and create deeper, more suitable habitats for fish like brook trout.

Where is the 'Trees for Trout' collection event held?

The 'Trees for Trout' collection event is held at the Arcadia Check Station, located at 2224 Ten Rod Road in Exeter, Rhode Island.

Home / Environment / Rhode Island: Christmas Trees Boost Fish Habitat

Rhode Island: Christmas Trees Boost Fish Habitat

1 Jan

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Summary

Christmas trees are collected to build riverbank revetments.
Revetments help create deeper water habitats for wild brook trout.
The 'Trees for Trout' event is on Saturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rhode Island: Christmas Trees Boost Fish Habitat

State environmental officials in Rhode Island are encouraging residents to recycle their Christmas trees through a unique conservation program. The "Trees for Trout" initiative, a collaboration between the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Trout Unlimited, aims to restore freshwater habitats.

Since 2018, this program has collected used Christmas trees to construct conifer revetments along state rivers. These structures are vital for rebuilding eroding stream banks, which often become too shallow for fish spawning and living. The revetments help narrow river channels, ensuring deeper water during low-flow periods.

The "Trees for Trout" collection event is scheduled for Saturday, January 10th, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Arcadia Check Station in Exeter. Residents can drop off trees that meet specific criteria to contribute to the conservation efforts.