Join the #100in100 Forest Cleanup Challenge

Regularly spending time in the woods does a body good. A strengthened immune system, reduced blood pressure, increased energy, boosted moods and greater focus–all thanks to trees. This summer, you can say "thanks."

Now through September 22, the Michigan DNR (Department of Natural Resources), challenges nature lovers to spend some quality time among the trees and clean up 100 state forest sites in 100 days. It’s all part of celebrating 100 years of the National Association of State Foresters and that group’s work to ensure thriving forests for generations to come.

The cleanup effort is hosted by Michigan’s Adopt-a-Forest program, which tracks sites on public land where trash has been dumped and connects with volunteers to help restore the land. If a site has a large amount of debris or items that require special disposal, volunteers can request the assistance of program managers who will coordinate placement of appropriate trash bins.

To join in:
• Visit CleanForests.org to find a dump site, learn about cleanup safety and sign the volunteer waiver. An interactive map shows the locations and type of trash that needs to be cleaned up at more than 600 known sites can be viewed at bit.ly/100in100challenge.

• Gather your crew, get started and do some good!

• When you’re done, report the site as clean and spread the word on social media with #trashtag and #100in100 forest cleanup challenge to inspire others.

• Contact Conor Haenni 989-429-5542 with questions and for assistance in coordinating a cleanup.

When getting together for a cleanup, be sure to follow guidance from health experts and practice social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19. It's also important to be on guard for ticks in the forest.