In the morning, volunteers will assist with tasks to beautify W.J. Hayes State Park. These tasks will incorporate a variety of skill levels that will allow everyone to participate, from the smallest to the most mature. This effort is held in conjunction with a community project started by a local, non-profit organization called "Oh, These Irish Hills." Their goal is to encourage local residents and businesses to beautify the Irish Hills and bring back a sense of pride to this unique gem of southern Michigan.

"'Oh, These Irish Hills' is a non-profit organization that has helped Hayes State Park numerous times in the past," said DNR Park Supervisor Tim Bauer. "We feel it is our turn to help them. We want to set an example for others in the Irish Hills community by taking part in this beautification effort."

Lunch will be provided to all volunteers by park staff. However, anyone who wishes to bring a dish to pass or donate towards the lunch should contact the park at 517-467-7401. An Earth Day program will be part of the lunch time entertainment and will focus on each individual's responsibility to take care of his or her environment.

The afternoon highlights include children's cupcake decorating and planting donated trees.

"A very important part of the day is the tree restoration project. ?Oh, These Irish Hills' organized this part of the event as a way to give a gift to the park as we celebrate Earth Day 2009," said Bauer. "Children attending the event last year planted 12 donated trees. Their enthusiasm was unmatched, and now they can come back to the park for years to come and remember the trees they helped plant."

Campers and non-campers are encouraged to "GO-Get Outdoors" and join in the fun. Bring your own shovel and gloves.

Hayes State Park is located at 1220 Wamplers Lake Rd. in Onsted. For more information about this event, accessibility, or persons needing accommodations to attend this event, contact the park at 517-467-7401 (or TTY/TDD711 Michigan Relay Center for the hearing impaired), or visit the web site at www.michigan.gov/hayes. Camping reservations can be made on-line at servations.com by calling 1-800-44PARKS (800-447-2757).

All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the entrance. Cost is $24 for resident annual and $6 for resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8.

Join the DNR in celebrating the 90th anniversary of Michigan State Parks this year. Activities are planned throughout the year. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/dnrcalendar.