FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE
Nov. 5, 2015

Contact: Eric Cowing (DNR), 989-473-2258 or Terry DeDoes (Consumers Energy), 517-788-2394

Mio Pond State Forest Campground timber harvest set to start

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources today announced that portions of the Mio Pond State Forest Campground and fishing site in Oscoda County will undergo timber harvesting over the next several months. The work is expected to start early next week.

This facility is owned by Consumers Energy and operated under a lease agreement by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The two agencies have worked together in determining the proper forest treatments for this area.

As part of the hazardous tree management program, all aspen trees within these areas will be removed. These trees have reached an age where they have become a hazard to visitors, often snapping off during storm events.

Oak wilt, which can kill even a mature oak in one to two months, is prevalent in the area and has been infecting several trees each year. For this reason, most of the oaks greater than 4 inches in diameter also will be harvested.

Most spruce and white pine and all smaller hardwoods will remain. The DNR is hopeful that this will minimize any visual impacts to the sites.

For those whose camping or boating plans might be affected by these activities, there are several other sites in the area to consider. Boat launches at M-33, Comins Flats, Camp 10 and Whirlpool will remain available for use. Camping also is available at Parmalee Bridge and Muskrat Lake campgrounds.

For information about this project, contact Eric Cowing, DNR Parks and Recreation unit supervisor, at 989-473-2258, or Terry DeDoes of Consumers Energy at 517-788-2394.

Inside Michigan’s Great Outdoors subscribers are always the first to know about reservation opportunities, state park events and other outdoor happenings. Visit www.michigan.gov/dnr to subscribe now.

Learn more about how the Recreation Passport gains you access to Michigan state parks and more at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.