The celebration of trees is part of two spring 5K run/walk events organized by the DNR, and you can join the fun.
First up: the March 23 Lumberjack Pancake Run, which takes place along the Dequindre Cut in Detroit and honors Michigan’s lumber history. You’ll get a custom medal, lumberjack buff, Outdoor Adventure Center entry and a pancake breakfast.
Wear your finest flannel apparel or sport your best lumberjack beard. If family and friends want to join the pancake breakfast, extra food tickets are available for $5 each. Stick around after breakfast for the Outdoor Adventure Center’s Lumberjack Day, featuring maple syrup tasting, a chainsaw artist demo and more.
“The theme of the race was chosen to honor and open discussions about the importance of the lumber era in Michigan’s history,” said Patrick Endres, interpreter at the OAC. “Lumberjack Day is all about celebrating Michigan forests by highlighting natural and cultural topics through hands-on activities and sharing historical information.”
Questions? Contact Patrick Endres at EndresP3@Michigan.gov or Emily Grant at GrantE1@Michigan.gov.
Support tree-planting efforts
Take part in the April 22-26 Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K, an event that started in Michigan and has expanded to include tree-planting efforts in nine other states. In addition to a T-shirt, medal and bib, you’ll receive a happy little sticker as a thank-you for your continued support of tree plantings.
“This virtual race is a perfect trifecta: people being active and spending time outdoors, celebrating their love of trees and honoring legendary artist and outdoor enthusiast Bob Ross,” said Michelle O’Kelly, fund developer and Happy Little Trees race director for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “We are incredibly proud to be helping expand this positive impact across the United States.”
Race packets will start shipping March 1. To guarantee shipment before the race, please register by April 1. Online registration closes April 15.
Questions? Contact Michelle O’Kelly at OKellyM1@Michigan.gov.
