Metroparks partners with REI to encourage stewardship and recreation in the outdoors

Skip the stores on Black Friday and instead #OptOutside

BRIGHTON, Mich. — The Huron-Clinton Metroparks is proud to partner with REI Co-Op as a destination to #optoutside on Friday, November 29.

Five years ago, REI made a made the decision to close its doors on Black Friday and instead encourage employees, members and the public to spend the day with family and friends outdoors.  The movement has grown over the years, and this year it expands to challenge people to #OptOutside by Opting to Act.

Opting to Act asks not just its employees and members, but everyone to make a deliberate act to better the environment. Starting October 23 and until Black Friday, REI will be redoubling their volunteer commitment to park and trail clean ups. “As a single company, our impact is limited, but as a community, we can drive change that powers meaningful action beyond our walls,” Artz wrote. “As a co-op, we know that many people taking many small steps together can add up to big changes. Collective intention will drive collective impact.”

The Metroparks has committed to supporting REIs initiative and has volunteer opportunities available to #OptOutside and Opting to Act.   “Partnering with REI for volunteer opportunities is a perfect match for the Metroparks.  We are able to share our knowledge, enterprise and passion for natural spaces and stewardship of our natural resources,” said Katie Kowalski, Huron-Clinton Metroparks Volunteer Services Supervisor. One option for volunteers is to work side-by-side the natural resources staff on invasive shrub removal at the Metroparks.

Invasive shrubs, brought to the United States for landscaping and wildlife habitat, have now taken over many prairies, wetlands, and forest understories. They have become a detriment to our ecosystem by crowding out native plants. Native biodiversity is extremely important to support wildlife, native bees, and other insects. Volunteers are a critical part of positively impacting natural areas we wouldn’t be able to otherwise! Your help allows the Metroparks to protect unique ecosystems that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Your Metroparks also offers opportunities to #OptOutside on Black Friday.  The Metroparks invite you to explore, experience and enjoy the many trails, nature and farm centers, and activities available this season.  Stony Creek Metropark and Hudson Mills Metropark have guided and self-guided hikes specific to #OptOutside on November 29 (Black Friday).  You can learn about the volunteer opportunities and hikes by visiting, https://www.metroparks.com/events/list/?tribe_eventcategory=196.