Should you put your Christmas Tree in a river? DNR says there are alternatives

DETROIT (FOX 2):Many Michiganders will be searching for methods to get rid of their natural Christmas trees now that Christmas Day is behind them. However, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), there are more environmentally friendly ways to get rid of those trees.

Should I put my Christmas Tree in a river?

According to the DNR, they have frequently been questioned if Christmas trees would be suitable fish habitat. Christmas trees are categorized as soft wood, even though hard wood is vital to fish and other creatures because it gives them a place to hide from predators and a chance to enjoy the sun, lowers wave energy that erodes shorelines, and promotes the growth of aquatic plants.

What trees count as Christmas Trees?

Balsam fir, Douglas fir, Fraser fir, noble fir, Scotch pine, Virginia pine, and white pine are common species of Christmas trees. These trees decompose rapidly under damp conditions. Their branches are frequently too thick for animals to live in.

Additionally, the DNR cautions that insecticides used on Christmas trees, leftover ornaments, and tree-sunking anchors could release undesired materials into the waterways.

What is the best use for a Christmas tree?

After the holidays, the DNR offered a number of uses for your tree.

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  “Create a brush pile on your property to provide habitat; wildlife may use it for nesting or as a food source. Just make sure that the tree is pesticide-free and that you ve removed all of the ornaments and other decorations.
  
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  Cut the tree into small pieces or mulch it to use in garden pots or landscaping, which will return nutrients to the soil. Depending on the type of gardening you re doing and the type of tree you have, you may need to confirm that the tree is pesticide-free and that it won t negatively affect soil composition for whatever you re growing.
  
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  Give the tree to a friend who has chickens or goats. Chickens can roost on trees and goats love to chew on them. Again, make sure the tree is pesticide-free before allowing animals to use it.”
  

Since many municipalities and communities have specific drop-off locations or collect trees, you can also recycle your tree.

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