Vermont club organized Christmas tree drop

The Rutland B.A.S.S. Club strategically placed more than 30 Christmas trees around Lake St. Catherine.

The Rutland B.A.S.S. Club of Vermont strategically placed bundles of recycled natural Christmas trees around Lake St. Catherine in May 2011. The bundles consisted of a number of trees wired together and fastened to concrete blocks. The bundles were deployed into the water from boats directly over specified locations. Approximately 30 trees were dropped between 10 and 15 feet, where they will not interfere with boating or cause safety concerns. 

The trees will provide aquatic habitat for fish and other organisms, as well as provide cover and shelter for juvenile gamefish. They were spread over a 1,088-acre area.

The Vermont B.A.S.S. Federation Nation appropriated $1,000 for the club to purchase materials for the project, including 30 double-hole cinder blocks, bags of concrete mix, screws, strapping and baling wire.

Eighteen volunteers contributed to the two-day effort.

The Rutland B.A.S.S. Club plans to continue the Christmas Tree Habitat project in 2012.

 

This article is part of the Habitat Improvement segment of the larger report, 2011 Annual Achievements in B.A.S.S. Conservation.