Michigan’s Forest Management Plan needs public input this December

Lansing — Anyone interested in the future of Michigan’s nearly 4 million acres of state forests is invited to learn more about and provide feedback on the draft State Forest Management Plan during two December webinars.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently completed the draft plan, a document designed to guide management of Michigan’s state forests for the next decade.

Webinars will be held:

• 3-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 11.

• 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec 18

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The state forest has evolved since it was first established in 1903, and so has forest planning and management. The draft State Forest Management Plan was collaboratively developed by DNR forestry, wildlife, fisheries and recreation planning staff. It is designed to help keep state forests healthy and abundant while providing for many different values and uses, from timber to recreation to wildlife habitat.

RELATED STORY FROM OUTDOOR NEWS: State forest plan in Michigan includes considerations for deer wintering yards in the UP

Where to go

Learn about the plan by visiting www.michigan.gov/dnr/managing-resources. Click on Forestry, then Public Input. You can also offer written comments on the plan through Dec. 31. Submit by email to ForestPlanComments@Michigan.gov.

To register for the webinars or if you have questions about the webinars, contact David Price at priced1@michigan.gov or Erin Victory at victorye@michigan.gov.