The state of Michigan says the number of private memorials on public lands in northern Michigan has increased recently. But those memorials have to be removed, according to the D-N-R-E.
The memorials include mementos left by individuals on public land near roads, trails, or in forests, to honor lost loved ones. Officials say they understand why people place the memorials, maybe near the site of a car accident or a favorite hunting spot.
Lori Burford is a trespass specialist for the DNRE's Forest Management Division.
"Often, these memorials are adjacent to public roads, as well as on state forest property. So, what ends up happening there, they can be a distraction to road users; they can occupy public land, taking that away from public use."
She says, too, that people sometimes gather around those sites and contribute to litter.
Forest Management will remove memorials if they aren't recovered by the individuals who place them.
Burford says there are several state programs that help people honor lost loved ones, instead of placing private memorials.
"We have Adopt-a-Park and Adopt-a-Trail programs throughout the state. Call the local individual park supervisor or trail manager. We have a state forest donation program, that affords folks the opportunity to donate to the state forest, and help to contribute to our management of those state forest lands, that maybe they visited with their loved ones."
Burford says there are additional programs, too. You can find more information about those programs here.
The memorials include mementos left by individuals on public land near roads, trails, or in forests, to honor lost loved ones. Officials say they understand why people place the memorials, maybe near the site of a car accident or a favorite hunting spot.
Lori Burford is a trespass specialist for the DNRE's Forest Management Division.
"Often, these memorials are adjacent to public roads, as well as on state forest property. So, what ends up happening there, they can be a distraction to road users; they can occupy public land, taking that away from public use."
She says, too, that people sometimes gather around those sites and contribute to litter.
Forest Management will remove memorials if they aren't recovered by the individuals who place them.
Burford says there are several state programs that help people honor lost loved ones, instead of placing private memorials.
"We have Adopt-a-Park and Adopt-a-Trail programs throughout the state. Call the local individual park supervisor or trail manager. We have a state forest donation program, that affords folks the opportunity to donate to the state forest, and help to contribute to our management of those state forest lands, that maybe they visited with their loved ones."
Burford says there are additional programs, too. You can find more information about those programs here.