Michigan gets greener, even in the fall
ReLeaf Michigan works with communities and organizations throughout Michigan to protect and restore the state’s urban tree canopies.
Non-profit plants thousands of trees throughout state
Oct. 15, 2025
Life takes energy—and often a leafy canopy to provide shade on those sunny Michigan days.
That’s where ReLeaf Michigan comes into play.
Since 1988, Michigan’s only statewide tree planting non-profit organization has worked with more than 700 communities to plant nearly 34,000 trees on public land.
Enbridge staff joined about 30 other volunteers on Oct. 11 to plant trees for ReLeaf Michigan in the Village of Mackinaw City.
Through a series of year-round tree-related initiatives and educational programming, the Ann Arbor-based organization demonstrates its belief that Michigan communities are stronger when they are greener.
ReLeaf hosted one such initiative Oct. 11 in the Village of Mackinaw City.
“Trees are more than decorative; they are essential to the environment and our communities.”
—Lauren Brown, Enbridge community engagement advisor
Enbridge’s Line 5 Michigan operations staff joined Enbridge community engagement advisors Kirstie Staelens and Lauren Brown and approximately 30 other volunteers to plant 25 trees, ranging from red oaks to maples and red buds to mention just a few of the varieties that were planted.
“ReLeaf is a tremendous organization dedicated to far more than enhancing the beauty of our communities,” said Lauren Brown, a Native American and Enbridge community engagement advisor.
“We share its commitment to creating a healthier environment that contributes to improved air quality and clean, healthier communities.”
While ReLeaf covers the costs of the trees, delivery and watering supplies, volunteers and partnering communities dig the planting holes, offload the trees from trucks and provide ongoing maintenance for which ReLeaf provides education.
ReLeaf Michigan works with community officials across the state to develop tree management strategies that include a tree inventory.
“The Enbridge Fueling Futures grant symbolizes Enbridge’s commitment to Michigan and our environment,” said Melinda Jones, ReLeaf executive director.
“We appreciate the partnership with Enbridge and our other sponsors and donors. They are instrumental in our growth and what we bring to our Michigan communities.”
In 2025, ReLeaf received a $20,000 Enbridge Fueling Futures grant.
Find additional information on how you can get involved with ReLeaf Michigan.
