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2025 Happy Little Trees (Virtual) 5K raises $200,000
The 2025 Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K drew over 10,000 participants across Michigan and a dozen other states during Earth Week and Arbor Day (April 19-27). Participants could choose their own pace and any outdoor location. For a $36 registration fee, participants received a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, finisher’s medal, commemorative bib number, and shipping.
The 2025 event raised more than $200,000 for tree planting and forest protection, with each state receiving funds proportional to its participation. The total included nearly $40,000 in optional donations made during registration.
Registration for the 2026 Happy Little (Virtual) 5K will open this fall.
People around the world are familiar with the work and personality of Bob Ross, the American painter, art instructor and television host who in the ’80s and ’90s shared his love for painting and the environment with millions of viewers on the PBS show, “The Joy of Painting.” Ross was known for demonstrating seemingly simple brushstrokes that brought gorgeous landscapes – full of happy little trees – to life on the canvas.
The tree planting program
Launched in 2004 as a partnership with the Michigan Department of Corrections' Horticulture Education program, this tree planting initiative provided participants the training and job skills to grow seed from native trees found in Michigan state parks. Through funding provided by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the program aimed to mitigate the loss of ash trees due to the emerald ash borer and equip participants with job skills.
In 2019, the program expanded into "Happy Little Trees," a collaboration between the DNR and Bob Ross Inc. to raise awareness about tree planting and forest protection. Funds raised support the purchase of native trees and shrubs, seed collection, and forest canopy protection within Michigan state parks.
Visitors to state parks where trees have been planted will see bright green "Happy Little Trees Ahead" signs to note the program's important contributions.
The program has produced more than 100,000 native plants, shrubs and trees since its start in 2004. With support from the Bob Ross partnership, more than 2,100 trees have been planted in 20 state parks across Michigan.
Questions?
For more details on Happy Little Tree plantings, general tree planting or forest health in state parks, contact Heidi Frei (DNR forest health specialist).
For more details on the Happy Little Trees partnership, the Happy Little 5K, and sponsorship opportunities, contact Michelle O'Kelly (DNR parks and recreation fund developer).
Support Happy Little Trees!
Show your support for trees in state parks by donating to the tree planting and protection fund. This fund supports forest stewardship and protection in state parks, such as planting trees and fighting invasive species and diseases.