MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - April showers may bring may flowers, but they're also responsible for the dozens of little flags in the ground popping up everywhere.

Consumer's Energy media contact Terry DeDoes, says that this month is especially important for people attempting to do home-improvement type repairs this spring.

Governor Rick Snyder has declared April is Safe Digging month to help remind residents anyone who wishes to do a project that requires digging should know what's below before they start.

Miss Dig is a hotline provided by Consumer's Energy. Consumer's then hires a contractor to come out and mark where your gas, power, or even sewer lines are.

DeDoes says that the flags may not reflect exactly where the line is--and to hand dig with a wooden shovel to make sure that you're not hitting any lines. He says that the line can range in four feet from either side of the flags.

DeDoes also says that it's important the flags stay where they are in the ground.

"Kids like to grab them and put them on their bikes," said DeDoes.

DeDoes says in order to ensure safe digging, they must remain in the ground.

In Meridian Township, many homes are in or near a floodplain. Work in the floodplain must comply with federal, state, and Township requirements. The Township Public Works & Engineering Department encourages residents to call 517-853-4440 so the Department can help residents determine if there home is near a floodplain and what permits would be required.

And as the warmer weather evokes home renovations and spring cleaning, the Meridian Township annual Spring Recycling Event will be held on Saturday, April 25th from 9am to 2pm for residents to get rid of unwanted items.