June 22, 2016

Contact: Patrick Mohney, 989-426-9205, ext. 7640

They’re your forests: Share ideas on state forest planning for Arenac, Clare, Gladwin, Midland counties

If you live adjacent to, have a cottage or camp near, or simply like to spend time on the state-managed forest land in Arenac, Clare, Gladwin or Midland counties, here’s an opportunity to look over and comment on proposed 2018 forest plans for these areas.

July open houses

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will host open houses from 3 to 6 p.m., Tuesday, July 19, at the DNR Gladwin Field Office, 801 N. Silverleaf, in Gladwin, and from 3 to 6 p.m., Wednesday, July 20, at the Redding Township Hall, 8391 W. Temple Drive, in Harrison.

For more efficient oversight, the DNR divides each forest management unit into smaller units or "compartments." This year, compartments under review are in Whitney Township (Arenac County); Greenwood, Hamilton, Hayes, Redding, Summerfield and Winterfield townships (Clare County); Grim Township (Gladwin County), and Geneva Township (Midland County). 

Maps and information regarding proposed management activities (treatments) can be found at www.michigan.gov/forestry. Compartment Review Packets for the 2018 year of entry can be found by selecting the Find a Forest button and clicking the Gladwin button on the map. This information also will be available at the open house.

In addition to the review of these forest treatments, the DNR will seek public input regarding Special Conservation Areas, or areas recognized as having unique values, such as old growth, springs or wildlife habitat corridors. This review will utilize the most up-to-date categories of Special Conservation Areas and values.

July meeting – final treatment plans

The DNR will complete its formal compartment review Thursday, July 28, to decide on final treatment plans for these areas. That meeting will take place at 9 a.m. at the DNR field office at 2115 Sullivan Drive in Harrison.

Anyone with a disability that requires accommodations to attend these meetings is asked to contact Patrick Mohney at mohneyp@michigan.gov or 989-426-9205, ext. 7640, at least five business days prior to each meeting.

Those unable to attend either meeting are encouraged to submit comments via email to Patrick Mohney using the subject line “Gladwin Forest Management Unit open house comment.” All comments must be received at least three days before each meeting.

Learn more about the state forest planning process at www.michigan.gov/forestplan.

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.