TIONESTA, Pa. – The Pittsburgh District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will receive live evergreen Christmas trees at Tionesta Lake starting Dec. 26, which will contribute to fish habitats.
From Dec. 26 until Jan. 19, 2025, visitors can deliver live Christmas trees to the boat launch location at Tionesta Lake on Route 36. There will be signs posted to assist with tree drop-off procedures.
The address for the project office is 477 Spillway Road, Tionesta, PA 16353-9613.
Donated trees must be devoid of ornaments and non-biodegradable materials. Artificial trees will not be permitted.
The collected trees will be employed in structural fish habitat enhancement projects. When secured to the substrate of a body of water, evergreen trees foster optimal environments for attracting and sustaining a variety of fish species and other aquatic life.
The decomposing woody debris offers essential food sources for aquatic macroinvertebrates to prosper, thereby drawing in insects that appeal to smaller fish species like yellow perch, rock bass, and bluegill. With smaller prey fish residing and concealing themselves among the branches, larger predatory fish species, such as smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, and muskellunge, will also visit the structure, enhancing fishing prospects for appropriately-licensed anglers.
For additional details or inquiries, please reach out to the Tionesta Lake office at (814) 755-3512.
Media representatives can connect with the Public Affairs office via CELRP-PA@usace.army.mil or by calling 412-395-7500.
Be informed. Get trained. Wear a life jacket. Be aware of the waterways. Take a safety course.