Posted in Missouri January 01, 2018 by Liz Oliver

The One Place In Missouri Where Christmas Trees Go To Die

Millions of families pick real Christmas trees for their holiday decor each year. Many families have made picking the perfect Christmas tree from the farm or local lot a holiday tradition. However, did you ever wonder what happens to your tree after you take it down? Here in Missouri, conservationists have found a new use for your old Christmas tree. Find out where Missouri Christmas trees go to die.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

Each December, between 25 and 30 million real Christmas trees are purchased each year.

Have you ever wondered what happens with your trees after you drop them off for recycling? Some cities grind them for mulch but other drop off locations do something a bit different with your tree.

When Christmas trees are recycled with the Missouri Department of Conservation, you're helping to create new habitats for thousands of Missouri fish.

Since many of Missouri's lakes are man made, there isn't a lot of natural cover for fish to take shelter in. These old Christmas trees help to provide habitats in those lakes.

The trees really help boost the entire lake ecosystem. Smaller fish can feed off the trees, in turn attracting larger fish who then decide to spawn there.

The trees are tied to cement blocks and submerged at depths of four-to-seven feet which is ideal for their new tenants.

Best of all, these trees help the populations of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and crappie continue to flourish here in Missouri. Which means you can enjoy another great year of fishing!

Have you seen old Christmas trees in local lakes or ponds near you? Do you know of other places that are accepting trees for conservation efforts? Let us know in the comments below.