This Popular Michigan Outdoor Activity Can Harm Wildlife

Now that Michigan's weather is much more enjoyable (read: sunny and warm), Michiganders are taking full advantage of being outside.

Lucky for us, Michigan is home to plenty of fun outdoor activities! Fly fishing, hiking, swimming, enjoying a picnic or bonfire, sailing, kayaking, and so much more! Plus, Michigan is home to thousands of natural wonders: lakes, woods, rivers, and more.

A point of order when you visit Michigan's outdoor beauty: leave no trace. And that includes stacking rocks.

Don't Stack Michigan River Rocks

Stacking rocks has become more of a popular phenomenon in recent years. People do it for various reasons—therapeutic, aesthetic, or fun ones. But, regardless of the reasons, it's a practice that is highly discouraged because of the severe consequences it can have.

It's one thing to stack rocks in your own backyard. However, you should always leave river rocks alone.

How River Rocks Support Michigan Wildlife

River rocks play crucial roles in the ecosystems of Michigan rivers and other bodies of water. For example, dragonflies start their lifecycle underwater, clinging to river rocks until they become adults, so it's imperative that we not disturb river rocks. Plus, dragonflies eat mosquitoes, so we want as many dragonflies as possible.

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Also, young fish use those rocks as places to hide. Do you want a poor fishing season in Michigan? I think not...

All of this is to say there's a reason the phrase 'Leave No Trace' exists. So, when you're visiting nature in Michigan, just be nice and leave those river rocks alone.