Should you put your Christmas Tree in a river? DNR says there are alternatives
DETROIT (FOX 2) - With Christmas Day now in the rearview mirror, many Michiganders will be looking for ways to get rid of their natural Christmas trees. Meanwhile, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says there are safer ways to be rid of those trees without hurting the environment.
Should I put my Christmas Tree in a river?
The DNR says they have been asked many times whether a Christmas trees would make good habitat for fish. Though hard wood is important to fish and other animals providing refuge from predators and opportunities to bask in the sun, reduces wave energy that erodes shorelines and encourages the growth of aquatic plants, Christmas trees are classified as soft wood.
What trees count as ‘Christmas Trees?’
Christmas trees are typically species such as balsam fir, Douglas fir, Fraser fir, noble fir, Scotch pine, Virginia pine and white pine. These trees break down quickly in watery environments. Their branches are often too dense for animals to use as a habitat.
The DNR also warns that pesticides applied to Christmas trees, leftover decorations and anchors used to sink trees may introduce unwanted materials into the waters.
What is the best use for a Christmas tree?
The DNR listed several uses for your tree after the holidays.
- "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.
- 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.
- 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."
You can also recycle your tree, as many cities and towns collect trees or have designated drop-off spots.