EXETER, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is collecting Christmas trees to help protect the state’s river habitats. Donated trees will be used to slow erosion along riverbanks and provide a home for fish, turtles and other animals.
Placing the trees in strategic spots along a river’s edge narrows and slows the stream of water, trapping the sediments and stabilizing the bank. The trees also create a refuge habitat for fish, turtles and other organisms in the water. The process, called “conifer revetment,” helps restore rivers that have become too wide and shallow due to flooding and storms, the department said.
Trees can be dropped off at the Arcadia Check Station in Exeter on Jan. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. No synthetic trees will be accepted, and all trees must be completely free of tinsel and decorations. Please do not bring trees that have been treated with fire retardant chemicals.
While the DEM has had this program for several years, new this year there will be family friendly activities during the collection event. Staff will offer fly tying lessons for beginners at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., noon and 1 p.m., as well as an introduction to freshwater fishing and fly-fishing class at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Other kid-friendly activities will be available, as well.
If you’re unable to drop off your tree, check out Rhode Island Resource Recovery’s options for tree disposal in your town.
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