|
|
 |
|
Old Christmas trees dodge the chipper, create homes for fish at Canyon Lake |
|
The holiday season may be over, but the festive spirit glimmered for resident fishes of Canyon Lake as hundreds of donated Christmas trees were placed in the lake to make their home a bit homier.
On Saturday, Jan. 21, staff from the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) and volunteers created new fish habitats to help ensure robust fish populations. A total of 228 Christmas trees were put into the lake.
“The trees help create or improve habitat for fish, creating a refuge and structural habitat for juvenile fish, such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish,” said Andy Clark, statewide reservoir habitat and angler liaison program manager.
The trees were weighed down with cinder blocks, loaded onto a pontoon boat, and submerged into areas of the lake that have already had artificial habitats added, but would benefit from the addition of natural trees.
“In addition to aiding in the creation of robust fish populations, plankton can also grow on the trees, serving as nutrients for smaller fish species, and creating brand new ecosystems,” said Clark.
The locations where the Christmas trees were placed in Canyon Lake can be found at https://www.azgfd.com/fishing/
AZGFD started creating fish habitats using Christmas trees in 2019. This year’s project is possible thanks to Moon Valley Nursery, which donated many of the trees. See the 12 News story on this year's project. |
|
|
Advertising