Recycle your natural Christmas tree through Jan. 18, 2026 at Lake Thurmond.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, uses natural Christmas trees for fisheries habitat enhancement.
“We appreciate the community’s continued support in recycling Christmas trees each year,” said Evan Brashier, a conservation biologist for the Army Corps of Engineers. “These trees play a meaningful role in enhancing habitat and supporting a healthy fishery at Thurmond Lake.”
Only real, undecorated Christmas trees will be accepted. All ornaments, lights, tinsel, garland, and other decorations must be removed prior to drop-off. Artificial trees, wire-frame wreaths, household trash and yard debris are not permitted at any collection site, according to a news release.
The drop off locations are:
South Carolina:
Primary Site: Below Dam Day Use Park by the sign at coordinates 33.658390, -82.195938 (Clarks Hill)
• Dorn boat ramp (McCormick)
• Parksville Day Use Area boat ramp (Parksville)
Georgia:
• Amity Day Use Area boat ramp (Lincolnton)
• Keg Creek boat ramp (Appling)
Public anglers are encouraged to pick up recycled trees from these sites to create fish attractors throughout the reservoir. When properly anchored with concrete blocks and placed in 15-20 feet of water, outside of the main navigational channels, recycled trees form excellent underwater habitat. These structures provide cover for baitfish and attract sportfish such as crappie, bass, and sunfish, improving both fish populations and angler success, the news release said.
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