As Earth Day approaches Huron-Clinton Metroparks has come up with several ways that families in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties can do their part to help the cause.

“There are simple yet impactful actions that park visitors can take alongside the Metroparks to protect the environment and combat climate change,” said Amy McMillan, Metroparks CEO, in a news release, noting that attending an Earth Day event is just one way to make a difference. Efforts can also continue when the day is over.

Here are some examples of how Michiganders can do their part all year long:

Don’t litter, use trash cans

When you visit, always dispose of trash in the appropriate bins. Litter harms the environment, wildlife, and the beauty of our parks. Proper disposal is an easy way to keep our parks clean and reduce the environmental impact of trash.

Recycle responsibly

Starting this year, the Metroparks have introduced single-stream recycling bins in all parks, so you can now put all your recyclable materials in one can. However, it’s crucialto ensure that only the appropriate materials — paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and metal — are placed in the bins. More importantly, make sure to reference the labels on the bins for details of which materials are acceptable, and make sure they are clean. Remember not to put food waste and things like dirty pizza boxes into recycle bins. Quality recycling makes a difference, and when we recycle correctly, it reduces waste and helps conserve resources.

Support ‘Let It Grow’ zones

“Let It Grow” Zones are areas that are intentionally left unmowed to promote native plant growth. These zones help reduce emissions, improve wildlife habitats, enhance stormwater management, and improve water quality while reducing flooding. Visitors can support these initiatives by sharing with your own friends and family why these efforts are beneficial the next time you hear them wondering why areas of the parks don’t look mowed.

Reducing carbon emissions together

The Metroparks is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. This year, they have replaced fleets of previously gas powered golf carts with electric carts at Willow and Stony Creek Metroparks’ golf courses, bringing their count to 4 out of 7 courses using electric carts with the other 3 courses slated for conversion in 2026 — 2028. They are also piloting electric mowers, and other small equipment when replacing previously gas-powered equipment. They are testing electric and hybrid vehicles for park staff and implementing the first EV charging stations at Willow Metropark golf course for park visitors. Additionally, the Metroparks is conducting a study to set a baseline of their carbon emissions and explore other areas of operations where changes might result in reduced emissions. These efforts target the primary driver of climate change — rampant CO2 emissions. Michiganders can further support these initiatives by considering practices in their daily life that reduce their own carbon footprint.

Those looking to participate in Earth Day activities will find five different cleanups going on throughout the Metroparks going on April 19 through April 27. from cleaning up rivers in Macomb County to shorelines in Wayne County to removing invasive species at Kensington Metropark, there’s something for everyone.

McMillan said by participating in a cleanup, you’re not just helping to pick up trash, you’re taking a step toward creating a better experience for park visitors, cleaner waterways and a better habitat for wildlife that call the parks home.

The Metroparks in Michigan is the second largest park system in the state with 13 properties spanning nearly 25,000 acres across five counties. Those who benefit from the parks and programs include more than 7 million visitors who travel to Southeast Michigan’s environmental and recreational sites.

The following is a list of events that need the support of active volunteers:

Natural Resources Workday at Kensington

• April 19; 10 a.m.-noon

• Location: Kensington Metropark

Join the Natural Resources crew to celebrate Earth Day at Kensington Metropark. Get outside and work with us to remove invasive species like garlic mustard from a beautiful forest ecosystem. Pre-registration is required at this link.

Earth Day Clean-up at Stony Creek

• April 19, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Location: Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township

Work to clean up litter and plastic that can be dangerous to animals and unsightly to look at in the parks. Volunteers will help to keep Stony Creek Metropark beautiful and safe for people visiting and for the wildlife that live here. Check in at the Park Office to pick up your tools (trash bags and gloves), and directions/map to your assigned cleanup area. Registered volunteers will also get into the park for free that day. A limited number of commemorative volunteer patches will be available for scouts and other volunteers.

Clinton River Cleanup

April 19; 11 a.m.- noon

Location: Wolcott Mill Metropark, Historic Center

Staff at the Historic Wolcott Mill will be gathering riverside for the Clinton River Watershed Council’s Clinton Clean-Up Day. Volunteers will do their to keep the Clinton River and all its tributaries and confluences clean for future generations to enjoy. Learn about your impact on stormwater and water quality while we pick up around and in the river. All ages are welcome, water gear is advised.

Earth Day Shoreline Cleanup on Lake Erie

• April 26; 10 a.m. -noon

• Location: Lake Erie Metropark

Volunteers will gather to help support a cleanup event along the picnic areas and shoreline of Lake Erie Metropark. Individuals and groups will be assigned an area to help clean. The group will meet back up at the Food Bar around noon for lunch. Volunteers receive a free daily park entry for their support.

Earth Day Cleanup: Lake St. Clair

April 27; 10 a.m. — 1 p.m.

Location: Lake St. Clair Metropark

Cleanup days are not only good for the park’s wildlife but also make the park a more pleasant place for visitors as well. Volunteers will receive free entry into the park on clean-up day. All members of a group must be registered to participate and properly assign tasks. Snacks and water will be provided. Recyclable materials collected during this cleanup will be used by students and visitors at a later date to eventually create recycled art in the park as well.

New Earth Week Virtual Happy Hours: If you aren’t available to join for a clean-up, then consider joining one of the new Earth Week Virtual Happy Hours from April 21 — 25. Each day, Metroparks will spotlight a different aspect of their 5-year Climate Action Plan, offering practical tips for eco-friendly practices you can take at home, from harnessing the power of rain barrels and creating vibrant rain gardens to effective composting and waste management. Plus, unwind with a new mocktail recipe every day, perfectly crafted to complement the topic.

For more information on Earth Day events and how you can help, visit metroparks.com