PLANTING OHIO TREES — Trees were planted at East Fork State Park thanks to funds raised through last year’s Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K event. -- Contributed

COLUMBUS — Lace up, roll out, or grab a paddle, as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources invites Ohioans to join the Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K event.

Returning once again in support of tree planting and forest conservation efforts at Ohio parks, this one-of-a- kind event was inspired by the legacy of artist Bob Ross, who allows everyone to “make some happy little trees” with each registration in support of donations for planting trees.

“Ohio’s state parks are some of the most beautiful places to be active, and this event lets Ohioans enjoy them while directly contributing to their future,” stated ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Every participant helps us plant more native trees and strengthen the forests we all care about.”

From April 18-26, participants can complete their required 3.1 miles anywhere outdoors by either running, walking, biking, paddling, skating or rolling.

This flexible format makes the Happy Little 5K an accessible way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors on their own schedule.

Registration will be open through April 1 or until the event sells out, as was the case last year, officials noted. To register, visit runsignup.com/Race/MI/Lansing/RunForTheTreesHappyLittle5K.

Race packets, including the event T-shirt, commemorative bib and finisher’s medal, will begin shipping around the first week of March and will arrive in time for the virtual race week.

After completing the 5K, participants are encouraged to submit photos and results the weekend before Earth Day, April 22, and the weekend after Arbor Day, April 24. Submissions help showcase the diverse ways Ohioans enjoy the outdoors, while supporting conservation. Since its start in 2004, the Happy Little 5K program has helped produce more than 100,000 native trees, shrubs and plants for state parks and public lands. Ohio is one of 16 states participating in this year’s event.

For information, visit ohiostateparks.gov or follow Ohio state parks on Facebook and Instagram.