The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Learn about the Wisdom of Trees
Learn about the Wisdom of Trees
Trees give us countless benefits and offer us wisdom on so many subjects.
CHEMIS-TREE
Through photosynthesis, trees remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and release oxygen (O2) for us to breathe. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas. Because trees absorb and store carbon, they reduce the amount in the atmosphere and help slow climate change.
PSYCHIA-TREE
Did you know that just spending time around trees can improve your mental health? Research has found that time spent in forests can:
- Improve mood
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Sharpen mental focus
These mental health benefits can lead to physical benefits, too, such as lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system, and more energy.
INDUST-TREE
Trees are not only pumping oxygen into our atmosphere, but they’re also pumping money into Michigan’s economy.
Each year, forest products like lumber and paper contribute $22 billion to our state’s economy and support 91,000 Michigan jobs. Our beautiful forests also attract tourism, and tourism adds another $20 billion and hundreds of thousands of Michigan jobs.
TREE-COLOGY
Trees help our environment by:
Preventing soil erosion. Trees block strong winds, their roots hold soil in place, and their leaf canopies reduce the force of rainwater as it hits the ground.
Improving water quality. Trees act as filters to reduce water pollution.
Preventing flooding. Trees absorb water and manage runoff.
Providing homes for animals. Hundreds of species of animals live in Michigan forests.
SUSTAINABLE FORES-TREE
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources manages four million acres of state forests using the art and science of sustainable forestry. These practices are certified by two outside organizations. Sustainable forestry practices like these make forests healthier and include:
- Carefully planning the harvest and replanting of trees
- Fighting disease
- Controlling invasive pests
- Working to prevent wildfires
Wise things you can do to support Michigan's forests
Given all that forests do for us, it is wise to support them. Here’s how you can help:
Plant a tree – or many. Help the DNR meet its pledge of planting 50 million trees in Michigan by 2030. Learn more about the Mi Trees effort and get tips for tree planting and tree care.
Visit our state forests. Go camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, biking — or just relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Learn more about enjoying Michigan’s forests.
Learn about sustainable forestry and spread the word. Sometimes when people see trees being harvested, they think state forests are being destroyed. But harvesting is a part of sustainable forestry, just as replanting is. Learn how we manage our forests for everyone to enjoy, now and forever.
Practice fire safety. People start 9 out of 10 wildfires. Following these tips can help keep both you and our forests safe. Learn fire safety rules.
Volunteer or donate to Adopt-a-Forest. Our forest clean-up program needs your help! Learn more about Adopt-a-Forest.