Earth Day is just around the corner, and there's a load of family-friendly activities being planned in order to care for the natural beauty that surrounds us. From Leelanau Peninsula to the Chain of Lakes to Harbor Springs, here are 10 events that'll get you out there!
Earth Week with Leelanau Conservancy | Leelanau Peninsula
April 16 - 22, 2018
Various times
This eventful week offers a variety of ways to show your gratitude for nature including hikes, workbees and scenic bikes rides. A truly collaborative event, Earth Week has something for everyone who enjoys the great outdoors.
Glacial Hills Spring Work Day | Bellaire
Rescheduled for May 12th, 2018
10am-1pm
Join friends, trail users and volunteers for a morning of clearing and cleaning up this lush trail network in the heart of Bellaire. Bring gloves, loppers, and your sense of fun! You’ll be assigned to a group and your group will be assigned to a section of the trail. Snacks and some equipment provided.
Frog and Salamander Walk at Grass River Natural Area | Bellaire
April 21, 2018
11am-12:30pm
Celebrate the coming of spring with a guided walk to woodland vernal pools and look for salamanders along the way. Listen for signs of frog activity and learn how to identify species. Sightings will be recorded for research.
FIELDGUIDE: Art, Water, Wildlife | Central Lake
April 21, 2018
1pm - 5pm
After a morning on the trail, head over to Fieldguide Farmhouse for a pop-up art show celebrating water and wildlife. New works by artists Courtney Kent of The Compass Points Here and yours truly, Dani Knoph. Explore this modern farmhouse, transformed into a soulful bed & breakfast—all with a sweeping view of Intermediate Lake. Book signing by Grass River Education Director James Dake, author of Field Guide to Northwest Michigan. Enjoy small bites and an artful experience with live music!
Earth Day Tree Planting | Harbor Springs
April 21, 2018 | 10am-1pm
Explore the new trails of the Wilson Working Forest Reserve just outside of downtown Harbor Springs, and chip in to help Little Traverse Conservancy plant 1,000 trees!
Boardman River Clean Up | Traverse City
April 22, 2018
Noon
Keep this iconic northern Michigan river and trout stream clean. Meet at Hannah Park to participate in a river clean up right downtown. Fishermen, bring your waders! Trucks, garbage bags, trash claws and smiles all welcome!
Leo Creek Earth Day Celebration | Suttons Bay
April 22, 2018
1-4pm
Make a mushroom log. Embark on an eco scavenger hunt. See how solar systems work—all with your friends at Inland Seas Education Association, Leelanau Conservation District, 4-H, Leelanau Montessori, Northport Energy, Leelanau Conservancy, and TART Trails.
RecylceSmart Earth Day Celebration | Traverse City
April 22, 2018
11-4pm
See live raptors, cared for by Wings of Wonder. Learn the basics of backyard composting. Set out on a guided nature walk with Grand Traverse County Parks & Rec, and learn about campfire safety with MDNR. Live music by Jack Pine TC and delicious eats by Rockwich Food Truck.
Volunteer Workbee at Miller Creek Nature Reserve | Traverse City
9am-noon
April 22, 2018
Meet at Miller Creek Nature Reserve to lend a hand with staff and friends of Grand Traverse Conservation District. Spruce up the trails and plant native seedlings along the river banks. Bring sturdy shoes, work gloves and water.
GreenER presents "A Plastic Ocean" documentary | Elk Rapids
April 22, 2018
noon
As plastic waste pollutes our water, it's having a devastating impact on fish and wildlife. Learn more about this urgent issue and what can be done to help keep our oceans clean and protected. Free showing at Elk Rapids Cinema. Also on April 21st, join Green Elk Rapids for a community forum, 9:30-11am at HERTH in Downtown Elk Rapids.