FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 24, 2023
Contact:?DNR Office of Communications
[email protected]

Registration Closes Soon For Happy Little 5K

Virtual Race To Benefit Trees In Wisconsin State Parks

?

MADISON, Wis.?? The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds everyone that registration closes on March 1 for the Happy Little 5k, a race benefiting tree health in Wisconsin state parks. The race, inspired by artist Bob Ross, is a virtual event with proceeds going toward tree health and protection across the state.

This is a race that anyone and everyone can do. Participation is open to people of all abilities, whether they walk, run, skate, bicycle or use a mobility device. Participants can pick their start and finish lines for this 5k (3.1 mile) race.

By March 1, registrants can sign up and select Wisconsin as the state they wish to represent. A portion of the $34 registration fee will go toward tree planting and forest health efforts to combat threats from invasive species in Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas. Bulk registration is available for groups of 10 or more. Contact us for more information on bulk pricing.

Everyone who participates gets a Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib and a finisher?s medal. Participants pick the pace and the place, as long as it?s outdoors and you reach the finish line between Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 28).

The Wisconsin DNR is working with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to offer this opportunity. Michigan started the Happy Little Trees program in 2019 by partnering with Bob Ross Inc. to raise awareness of tree planting and forest protection efforts in its state parks. The program has led to thousands of trees planted in state parks across Michigan. This year, Michigan is partnering with other state departments of natural resources, including Wisconsin, to offer the Happy Little 5k.

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.

Suggested 5k routes at Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas will be available on the DNR's OutWiGo webpage?soon.

Registration is open until March 1, 2023.