Join Us For Planting Trees In Muskegon's First Microforest!

Calling all volunteers, nature lovers, and eco-warriors! Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and make a green difference this Earth Day? Join us for an exhilarating tree-planting event that promises to leave a lasting impact on our planet!

What: Student Day of Caring | Earth Day Tree Planting 
When: April 22nd, 2024, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where: Corner of Broadmoor Street & Marquette Avenue, Muskegon MI 49442

This Earth Day, let's turn our love for Mother Earth into action! Together, we'll plant trees to combat climate change, restore habitats for wildlife, and beautify our community. Whether you're a seasoned arborist or a first-time planter, there's a place for you in our green team!

Why Volunteer?

• Make a Difference: Every tree planted is a step towards a greener, healthier planet.
• Connect with Nature: Immerse yourself in the great outdoors and experience the joy of planting life.
• Community Bonding: Meet like-minded individuals and forge lasting friendships while working towards a common goal.
• Educational Experience: Learn about the importance of trees and their impact on the environment from knowledgeable experts.

What to Expect:

• Fun Atmosphere: Music, snacks, and camaraderie will fuel our planting efforts!
• Hands-On Work: Get your hands dirty and learn the art of tree planting from experienced guides.
• Family-Friendly: Bring the kids along for a family-friendly day of environmental stewardship.
• Feel-Good Vibes: Experience the satisfaction of contributing to a meaningful cause and leaving a green legacy for future generations.

What is a Microforest? 

The City of Muskegon, Muskegon Rotary Club, United Way of the Lakeshore, and the West Michigan Regional Development Planning Commission are pleased to develop this Muskegon natural treasure: a native, multi-species forest designed and planted to grow quickly and provide exceptional environmental benefits to the Marquette neighborhood and for our planet. The Marquette Microforest is designed using the Miyawaki planting method. First, we create a simulated forest floor using sheet cardboard and recycled woodchips. Then we incubate the forest floor for several weeks to cultivate soil fungi and all the creatures that eat it. Finally, we plant more than 50 native species that include sentinel canopy trees, subtrees, shrubs, and understory species, including grasses and wild-flowers. The Miyawaki secret is to install these plants very densely – up to three per meter – which creates shade competition to spur rapid growth. The fast-growing system delivers extraordinary ecological benefits: shade and cooling, stormwater uptake and purification, flood abatement, wildlife habitat, and carbon sequestration against climate change.