Little Things, Big Impact: Simple Ways to Help the Lakeshore

By: Kaitlyn Kausler

Whether you're visiting for the first time, a returning local, or just passing through, welcome to the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. With its calming views, sandy beaches, and peaceful trails, this place is truly a gem of the Great Lakes region. Keeping this in mind, the Friends and rangers strive to be beautiful, clean, and inviting, but this takes effort from all its visitors and those who enjoy it. To clear up any rumors you may have heard this year, Superintendent Scott Tucker put it simply: “Sleeping Bear is ready.”

The park is open, prepared, and excited to welcome visitors, but we need your help more than ever in leaving it better than you found it. Everyone plays a role in preserving this natural wonder. So, let’s explore how you can help protect and enjoy Sleeping Bear Dunes enjoyably, effectively, and responsibly. Today, we're highlighting a few small actions that may seem insignificant, but truly make a lasting difference in preserving the natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes. These small actions go a long way in protecting the shoreline, a place many of us love, and some even call home.

One of the easiest ways to make an impact is to take a trash bag with you. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful walk in the park, biking along the Heritage Trail, or strolling the beach, carrying a bag allows you to pick up any trash you come across. Every piece removed helps keep the park clean and safe for both visitors and wildlife. If you come across an overflowing trash can, please take your trash with you and dispose of it elsewhere. We know that’s not always convenient, but it makes a huge difference. Park rangers appreciate your extra effort more than you know.

While you're out on the trails or exploring the park, take a moment to educate others, especially about local wildlife like the endangered piping plover. These birds nest right on the beach, and by spreading awareness and encouraging people to give them space, you help protect their future.

Another powerful way you can make a difference is by becoming a Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes volunteer. As a volunteer, you’ll have the chance to participate in special events, share your love for the park, and serve as an ambassador to help promote a better, more respectful visitor experience for everyone. To become a volunteer, navigate to our website: https://www.friendsofsleepingbear.org/new-volunteer-registration

Thank you for doing your part to protect the Lakeshore so future generations can enjoy the same beauty we treasure today.

Ways YOU can help:

• Take a trash bag with you throughout the park to pick up litter

• Pack your trash out

• Educate others on local wildlife

• Become a volunteer

• Preserve the lakeshore to leave it better than you found it