In a few previous posts, we talked about giving a real Christmas tree a second life for wildlife. Brush piles on land, mulching, sitting the tree outside decorated with edible goodies for songbirds and squirrels to enjoy….lots of cool options. One we haven’t covered yet is used as a fish habitat!
Each year, old Christmas trees are sunk into area lakes and ponds to provide food and shelter for fish and other creatures. The trees serve as food for many macroinvertebrates (tiny aquatic creatures) and shelter for smaller fish hiding from predatory fish, such as bass. Sunken Christmas trees also enhance fishing opportunities for local anglers.
Don’t have a lake or pond on your property? As a friend, family member, or neighbor or check with your city or village street department or litter/recycling office to see if they are accepting trees this year.
Read more about contributing underwater structure on page 18 of the “Ohio Pond Management Handbook”: http://ow.ly/FSES30q37hV