By AP
MOUNT PLEASANT, MI –
Michigan is cracking down on use of state land for private memorials.
People sometimes place crosses, mementos and other items on public property in forests or near roads or trails. They're often near the site of an auto crash or a favorite hunting spot.
Lori Burford of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment says the memorials can distract motorists. They also take public property for private use, and people sometimes leave litter at the sites.
The department's Forest Management Division says it will dismantle memorials that aren't removed by the people who left them.
Burford tells WCMU-FM in Mount Pleasant there are several state programs for people to honor lost loved ones, such as adopting a trail or park, or donating to a forest.