History

In 1962, then-Governor John B. Swainson appointed a 17 member anti-litter committee in the state. The name of this committee was changed to Keep Michigan Beautiful, Inc. the following year.

In 1965, Lady Bird Johnson sponsored a White House Conference on Beautification. Thirty people from Michigan attended this national conference and upon their return, organized similar meetings throughout the state.

At a meeting held in Lansing, Governor George W. Romney declared KMB the official state organization to combat litter and promote beautification. In the beginning, KMB functioned mainly in the Detroit metropolitan area, but over the years an intensive organizational program has attempted to carry its activities into every county in Michigan.

Today, KMB tries to reach every area of the state to carry out its goals. Among other things, it utilizes a newsletter, speakers, the enthusiasm of its members and volunteers, its annual award program and well publicized “Clean Up Days” to convey its message.