Oregon Christmas Trees Recycled as Salmon Habitat
In Oregon, an innovative initiative aims to recycle Christmas trees into vital salmon habitats. The North Clackamas Watersheds Council will collect live-cut Christmas trees for this purpose.
Event Details
The collection will take place on January 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at North Clackamas Park, close to the Milwaukie Center. Participants can drop off their trees for a nominal fee of $5.
Ecological Importance of Christmas Trees in Salmon Habitats
Once collected, the trees will be attached to logs in a back-channel of the Willamette River on Elk Rock Island. This process creates a habitat that supports salmon and steelhead populations. According to Neil Schulman, the executive director of the North Clackamas Watersheds Council, these trees play a crucial role in river ecology.
Benefits of the Program
- Provides food and habitat for aquatic insects and fish.
- Helps slow down bank erosion, protecting local communities.
- Encourages a natural, complex river environment.
Schulman emphasizes that rivers need complexity to thrive. He noted the historical misconception that clean rivers required the removal of trees. “We actually used to think that they [rivers] needed to be clean,” Schulman explained. “But that understanding has evolved.”
Community Engagement
The North Clackamas Watersheds Council collects between 400 to 600 trees each year for this initiative. The trees will naturally decompose within a year, contributing to the underwater ecosystem. This initiative also reflects a broader trend in environmental conservation programs, such as Christmas for Coho, aiming to restore natural habitats across Oregon and the country.
In summary, disposing of Christmas trees in this way not only revitalizes salmon habitats but also strengthens local ecosystems, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature and community. By participating, residents can contribute to a healthier river environment and sustainable local wildlife. Join the effort by bringing your Christmas tree on January 10.
