GREENSBORO, Ga. — The Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam has once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement by spearheading a remarkable project aimed at enhancing aquatic ecosystems in Lake Oconee.

Partnering with Georgia Power’s Land Management team, Georgia Wildlife Resource Department, and the Lake Oconee Bass Masters Fishing Club, the Rotary Club coordinated the collection and repurposing of approximately 100 Christmas trees from local retailers, Home Depot and Lowe’s.

This innovative project addresses a critical environmental need by transforming discarded Christmas trees into vital habitats for fish. Once the holiday season concludes, many Christmas trees end up as waste. Recognizing their potential ecological value, the Rotary Club organized efforts to divert these trees from landfills and put them to productive use.

The collected trees were strategically sunk in Lake Oconee by members of the Rotary Club, Georgia Power, Georgia Wildlife Resource Department, and the Lake Oconee Bass Masters Fishing Club. These submerged trees will serve as artificial fish habitats, creating shelter and breeding grounds for various fish species. This effort not only supports fish populations but also enhances the overall biodiversity of the lake’s ecosystem, benefiting anglers and the local environment alike.

“This project perfectly embodies the Rotary spirit of ‘Service Above Self,’ as it combines environmental stewardship with community collaboration,” said Rotary Club President Elect Jennifer Pennington. “We are grateful to Georgia Power Land Management, Georgia Wildlife Resource Department, Bulldog Marine, and the Lake Oconee Bass Masters Fishing Club for their invaluable support and expertise in deploying the trees in designated areas.”

Jason Dobson with Georgia Power expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Partnering with the Rotary Club on this project has been a fantastic way to give back to the environment and the community. Repurposing these trees into fish habitats highlights the importance of innovative solutions for sustainability.”

The initiative underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing environmental challenges. Georgia Power’s involvement ensured logistical coordination and facilitated the collection of trees, while the Georgia Wildlife Resource Department brought their specialized knowledge of lake management and fish habitats to the table.

The Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam continues to explore innovative ways to contribute to the community and protect the environment. By working together with local organizations, they have created a project that not only recycles waste but also enriches the natural resources of Lake Oconee.

This collaborative effort stands as a testament to what can be achieved when community organizations and local stakeholders come together with a shared vision for sustainability. As these Christmas trees found a new purpose beneath the waters of Lake Oconee, they will leave a lasting legacy of ecological benefit for years to come.

The Rotary Club of Greene and Putnam Counties remains dedicated to supporting the local community and fostering goodwill through its initiatives. For more information about the club and its efforts, please visit www.greeneputnamrotary.org.