After providing Christmas cheer during the holidays, Missouri Department of Conservation spokesman Francis Skalicky said live, cut trees can fulfill a secondary purpose.
“The first purpose was to provide beauty and warmth and comfort to homes,” Skalicky said. “The second purpose is to provide beauty and warmth and comfort to wildlife species.”
Donated trees will be taken to Bois D'Arc Conservation Area this year and will bring added wildlife habitat for animals, such as rabbits, quail and ground-resting songbirds. MDC officials will look for open spaces that need a “habitat boost” where adding bundles of trees can help vulnerable creatures, Skalicky said.