EXETER, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is collecting Christmas trees to help protect the state's river habitats. Donated trees will be used to slow erosion along riverbanks and provide a home for fish, turtles and other animals.

Placing the trees in strategic spots along a river's edge narrows and slows the stream of water, trapping the sediments and stabilizing the bank. The trees also create a refuge habitat for fish, turtles and other organisms in the water.

The initiative is part of a partnership with Trout Unlimited, the department said. Trees can be dropped off at the DEM Division of Fish & Wildlife's Outdoor Education Office at 1B Camp E-Hun-Tee Place in Exeter. Directions to the office are available on the department's website.