Surprising Way Christmas Trees Help RI Rivers

For many families after the new year rolls in, the Christmas tree comes down. But where does that beautiful tree go next?

Numerous cities and towns across the area will start their seasonal pick up of old trees soon, but if yours hasn't been collected yet, there's still some good that Christmas tree can do.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), along with the Rhode Island Chapter of Trout Unlimited are asking for tree donations to help make local streams more fish friendly.

Why RIDEM Wants Your Christmas Tree

You may not have thought a Christmas tree could help make for better local fishing conditions, but that is exactly what RIDEM and Trout Unlimited are looking to do.

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On Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10 AM - 3 PM, the two organizations will be hosting their 'Trees for Trout' Christmas tree collection event inside the Arcadia Management Area.

You could bring your tree to a good cause, then stay to search for the Thomas Dambo troll hidden nearby.

Christmas Tree Donation Guidelines

Real trees only, no artificial or fire-retardant sprayed trees
No decorations attached, all tinsel, lights and tree stands removed
Whole trees only, conifer trimming and branches not accepted
Trees over 5' preferred
All bulk drop offs of 5 trees or more must be arranged in advance with Trout Unlimited

How the Trees Will Be Used

Trees collected at the January 10 event, will be saved for the summer months when RIDEM staff and Trout Unlimited volunteers use them to create "conifer revetments" for local waterways.

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management via Facebook

These revetments are basically chains of Christmas trees that will be stretched across eroded riverbanks to trap sediment and stabilize the soil which in turn creates the deeper, cooler habitat that trout (and other fish) prefer.

Take a Photo Tour of the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center

The New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is celebrating five years of providing education and information about the city's most vital industry. While these photos can give you an idea of what it's all about, the exhibits are interactive and hands-on, so check it out for yourself.

Gallery Credit: Tim Weisberg

Lesser Known Museums of New Bedford

Everyone undoubtedly thinks of the New Bedford Whaling Museum when they look for an indoor day in the city. However, there are actually quite a few museums throughout New Bedford for a wide range of interests. We found a few you might not have explored yet that are definitely worth the trip.

Gallery Credit: Nancy Hall