Loughs Agency and Donegal County Council Bring Back Scheme to Recycle Christmas Trees for River Improvements

1st January 2026

Afloat.ie Team

John Morrow of Donegal County Council’s environment section with Shane Gallagher, fishery inspector at the Loughs Agency on the banks of the Cummirk River, where last year’s natural Christmas trees have been used as part of a successful green engineering project Credit: Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency and Donegal County Council have announced the return of an innovative scheme that uses old natural Christmas trees to improve local rivers and waterways.

Donegal residents are encouraged to recycle their natural Christmas trees which will then be repurposed to stabilise riverbanks, reduce erosion and create habitats for wildlife.

Trees from last year’s pilot scheme are already being used as green engineering along the banks of the Cummirk River in Donegal.

Ciarán McGonigle, director of aquaculture and shellfisheries at the Loughs Agency said: “We are thrilled to partner with Donegal County Council on this programme again and encourage residents throughout Donegal to get involved.

“We’re delighted that last year’s trees are now supporting healthier water quality on the Cummirk River, which is part of the River Finn Special Area of Conservation, designated for its important habitats and species including Atlantic salmon. It’s a fantastic outcome for all involved.”

John Morrow of Donegal County Council with the Loughs Agency’s Shane Gallagher on the banks of the Cummirk River | Credit: Loughs Agency

Lorraine Arbuckle, climate action co-ordinator in Donegal County Council said: “After the success of last year’s scheme, this is another fantastic opportunity for residents to give back to nature. Recycling trees responsibly is good for the environment as well as directly benefitting our local ecosystems.

“This initiative shows how simple actions can have a big impact. By recycling your natural Christmas tree, you are helping to protect our rivers, strengthen biodiversity and support climate resilience in Donegal. It’s a great way to give back to nature after the festive season.”

Residents can still recycle their domestic Christmas trees free of charge at various locations throughout Donegal until 24 January, making the scheme as accessible as possible. Loughs Agency and Donegal County Council encourage the community to recycle responsibly to ensure our rivers and waterways continue to thrive into the future.

For more information on tree recycling locations and how you can contribute to this initiative, visit Donegal County Council’s website at www.donegalcoco.ie.

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About the Loughs Agency

The Loughs Agency is a governmental body established under the 1998 Agreement between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Ireland. The Agency's goal is to provide sustainable social, economic, and environmental benefits by effectively conserving, managing, promoting, and developing the fisheries and marine resources of the Foyle and Carlingford areas.

The Agency's governing legislation confers several specific functions, including the promotion of development of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough for commercial and recreational purposes in respect of marine, fishery, and aquaculture matters. Moreover, the Agency is responsible for managing, conserving, protecting, improving, and developing the inland fisheries of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Additionally, the Agency has the task of developing and licensing aquaculture, as well as the development of marine tourism.

The Loughs Agency reports to the North South Ministerial Council and its government Sponsor Departments, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications (DECC) in Ireland. The Departments fund the Agency on an equal basis.

The Loughs Agency's focus on sustainable development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, environment, and local communities in the Foyle and Carlingford areas. The Agency's efforts to conserve and enhance the region's marine resources, including fisheries and aquaculture, are expected to benefit local communities, promote tourism, and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the Loughs Agency plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable social, economic, and environmental development of the Foyle and Carlingford areas. Its work on marine conservation and development is crucial in ensuring the long-term viability of the region's natural resources and in promoting sustainable economic growth.