OHIO — There are ways for Ohioans to help the surrounding wildlife with their Christmas trees. 

What You Need To Know

  • The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of wildlife said live-cut Christmas trees can be repurposed as habitat for terrestrial and aquatic animals, such as for birds, fish, mammals and more

  • Trees are donated to ODNR through community recycling and drop-off programs

  • While live-cut trees can help form habitats for animals, they can also be used as compost and mulch

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of wildlife said live-cut Christmas trees can be repurposed as habitat for terrestrial and aquatic animals, such as for birds, fish, mammals and more. 

Trees are donated to ODNR through community recycling and drop-off programs. Sunken trees can be used for baitfish, which can attract sport fish, ODNR said. Decomposing trees can also feed zooplankton, which then can feed aquatic invertebrates and attract even larger fish. 

ODNR has selected locations at wildlife areas and ponds to place the donated Christmas trees. An interactive lake map on ODNR's website shows where trees are placed as fish attractors for anglers looking to catch a bite.

While live-cut trees can help form habitats for animals, they can also be used as compost and mulch. They could also be used as shelter for animals; ODNR recommends selecting a spot for the tree, stack limbs around it and layer more brush. This will allow birds to use the space for nesting or to hide from predators. It's also valuable for bees, moths and butterflies. 

Here are some ways to donate your live-cut Christmas trees:

Northeast Ohio

  • The Mahoning County Green Team has designated drop-off sites for trees until Jan. 31. These trees are repurposed for fish and wildlife habitats. 

Southeast Ohio

  • Between Jan. 2 and Jan. 31, the city of Chillicothe picks up trees for residents through the regular curbside garbage service. These trees are repurposed for fish and wildlife habitats. 
  • Residents in Lawrence County and drop off their trees at locations provided by Wayne National Forest staff. These trees will be used for fish structure, ODNR said. 

Southwest Ohio

  • Trees can be dropped off at the North Pool Boat Ramp at Caesar Creek State Park, 8570 E. State Route 73 in Waynesville until Jan. 21. 

ODNR reminds Ohioans to remove all decorations — including garland, lights, tinsel and ornaments — before donating, as they could pose a threat to the environment. ODNR said proper permission must be obtained before discarding trees on public or private property. 

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