July 28, 2016

Contact: Eric Thompson, 906-786-2354

They’re your forests: Share ideas on state forest planning for Delta and Menominee 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 Delta and Menominee counties, here’s an opportunity to look over and comment on proposed 2018 forest plans for these areas.

August open house

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will host an open house 3-6 p.m. (CDT) Thursday, Aug. 4, at the DNR Stephenson Field Office, West 5420 River Road.

For more efficient oversight, the DNR divides each forest management unit into smaller units or "compartments." This year, compartments under review are in Ford River, Baldwin and Maple Ridge townships (Delta County) and Gourley, Nadeau, Cedarville, Lake and Holmes townships (Menominee 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 “Escanaba” 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 be seeking 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.

August meeting – final treatment plans

The DNR will complete its formal compartment review Thursday, Aug. 25, to decide on final treatment plans for these areas. That meeting will take place at 9:30 a.m. (EDT) at the Escanaba State Office Building, second-floor conference room, 305 Ludington St.

Anyone with a disability that requires accommodations to attend these meetings should contact Eric Thompson at ThompsonE3@michigan.gov or 906-786-2354 prior to each meeting.

Those unable to attend either the July and August meetings are encouraged to submit comments via email to Eric Thompson using the subject line “Escanaba 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.