Full Breakdown
Great Falls Residents Encouraged to Recycle Christmas Trees for Fish Habitat
12/27/2025, 4:14:39 AM
Community Initiative: Pines For Perch Project
The City of Great Falls, in collaboration with Walleyes Unlimited, has launched the Pines For Perch project, urging residents to recycle their live Christmas trees to enhance fish habitats at Tiber Reservoir. This initiative aims to address the shortage of natural habitats for perch, a fish species that relies on specific environments for spawning.
Michael Croscutt, a member of Walleyes Unlimited, emphasized the importance of this recycling effort, stating, "We're asking the community of Great Falls to recycle any live Christmas tree." Residents are encouraged to drop off their trees at designated locations in Great Falls, where they will be collected for transport to Tiber Reservoir.
Recycling Process and Benefits
The recycled Christmas trees will be submerged in Tiber Reservoir at depths between 12 and 18 feet. This method creates essential spawning habitats for perch, allowing them to lay their eggs effectively. Croscutt explained, "We have a shortage of habitat at the lakes up there and with more of an abundance of Christmas trees. This helps the fish population."
Residents can participate in this initiative by recycling their trees between December 26, 2025, and January 9, 2026. The designated drop-off locations include Meadowlark Park at Fox Farm and Park Garden Road, and the American Little League parking lot at 1100 38th Street North. It is important for participants to remove all lights, decorations, and tree stands before recycling, as flocked trees are not accepted.
Official Statements & Responses
The City of Great Falls and Walleyes Unlimited have expressed their commitment to improving local fish habitats through community involvement. The initiative not only promotes environmental sustainability but also fosters community engagement in conservation efforts.
Criticism & Opposition
While the project has received positive feedback, some community members have raised concerns about the logistics of tree disposal and the potential environmental impacts of sinking trees in the reservoir. However, no formal opposition has been documented.
What's Next
As the recycling period approaches, the City of Great Falls and Walleyes Unlimited will continue to promote the Pines For Perch project, aiming to increase participation and awareness about the importance of fish habitats in local waterways.
This initiative represents a collaborative effort to enhance the ecological health of Tiber Reservoir while encouraging community involvement in environmental stewardship.
