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Earth Day is not only a time to appreciate the natural world around you, but to make positive changes for our environment. Although there is only one day dedicated to Earth Day, here in Gaylord, we believe in celebrating Earth Day every day. The founder of this special day was even named Gaylord Nelson! How cool is that?

Will you join us in honoring our planet? Keep reading for some easy tips on reducing your carbon footprint.

Help with a cleanup project 

Right now, many of our trails and parks are still recovering from the recent ice storm, and the Michigan DNR is asking volunteers to hold off on cleanup efforts until it’s safe. But that doesn’t mean you can’t start planning! Consider filling out a volunteer application for when the time is right to lend a hand. You can also look into longer-term programs like Adopt-A-Forest or Adopt-A-Highway through the Michigan DNR—great ways to make a difference year-round. If you’re planning a spring visit, the annual Downtown Gaylord Earth Day Clean-Up is a great way to get involved and give back during your stay.

Ride your bike 

Not only will riding your bike give you a boost of energy to start your day, but it also cuts down tremendously on air pollution. While visiting our area, you can experience “green” transportation in true up north style!

Invest in reusable items 

Plastic shopping bags and water bottles are two easy items to keep out of your recycling bins by purchasing reusable alternatives.  These are inexpensive items to buy and spending an afternoon wandering our lovely downtown shops will surely lead you in the right direction.

Plant native trees and wildflowers 

Restoring native plants is not only aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide shelter to local wildlife and support vital pollinators such as honeybees. The Otsego Conservation District is an excellent resource on native vegetation and your one-stop shop for local wildflowers and grasses found in northern Michigan. Along with their nursery, they offer a unique demonstration garden throughout the summer.

Buy from your local Farmer’s Market 

Supporting your local farming community comes with oodles of benefits! While eliminating the packaging and transporting of goods is obviously helpful to our environment, no one can deny that first bite into a farm fresh apple, strawberry or piece of sweet corn. The Downtown Gaylord Farmer’s Market is opening for the season soon! Follow them on Facebook for updates on dates, times and vendors.

Earth Day can be every day when you take small steps in the right direction!