Illinois Outdoors Update: Where to Drop Off Christmas Trees After Holidays

By
Country Herald Staff Report
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Christmas tree lot under blue sky.
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Springfield, IL — Illinois residents can recycle their live Christmas trees after the holidays by donating them to a statewide conservation effort aimed at improving fish habitat and fishing conditions.

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), fisheries biologists are collecting discarded live Christmas trees to be bundled, weighted, and submerged in local lakes. Once underwater, the trees provide shelter for multiple fish species and promote algae growth that supports insects, an important food source for fish.

IDNR officials say the trees will naturally decompose over time while enhancing aquatic ecosystems. Maps and coordinates of tree habitat locations are available through the IDNR Office of Fisheries, and anglers can request details directly from each lake’s biologist.

Only live trees are accepted. All trees must be free of stands, lights, ornaments, tinsel, wreaths, and garlands, and must be placed only in designated drop-off areas during approved dates.

Drop-Off Locations and Dates

Clinton County

  • Spillway Recreation Area: Dec. 26 to March 1 — near Little Prairie Nature Trail
  • Plant Land Garden Center: Dec. 26 to March 1 — designated area

Fayette County

  • Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — near boat ramp

Jasper County

  • Newton State Fish and Wildlife Area: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — northwest side near boat ramp
  • Sam Parr State Fish and Wildlife Area: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — southwest boat ramp

Lawrence County

  • Red Hills State Park: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — near boat ramp

Macon County

  • Nelson Park: Dec. 27 to Jan. 16 — near old Paul’s Puttin’ Place

Marion County

  • Centralia Public Works Building: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — 114 E. Fifth St., south gate
  • Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — near boat ramp

Moultrie County

  • Howy’s Lakeside Gas Station: Dec. 27 to March 1 — northwest parking lot corner

Richland County

  • Olney Municipal Parking Lot: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — northeast corner

Shelby County

  • Johnstowne Mall: Dec. 27 to March 1 — northwest parking lot corner

Stephenson County

  • Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park: Dec. 27 to Jan. 11 — follow posted signage

Wabash County

  • Beall Woods State Park: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — near boat ramp

Wayne County

  • Sam Dale State Fish and Wildlife Area: Dec. 27 to Jan. 18 — near boat ramp