April 25, 2025

DNR to schedule storm-related timber salvage sales

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will issue many salvage timber sales due to the ice storm event March 30-31 in the northern Lower Peninsula. The storm coated trees with up to an inch of ice, leaving pockets of severely damaged pine and hardwood trees on state forest land. 

Salvage sales will be advertised and sold quickly to use as much forest product material as possible, reduce the risk of pest infestation, and mitigate wildfire risk. Salvage sales will be sold out of DNR forestry field offices in Vanderbilt, Atlanta, Gaylord and Grayling.

Bid announcements and bid forms will be available via email and as paper copies at each of those four field offices. 

There will be SEVEN days from the bid announcement until bid opening and contract award.

DNR Forest Resources Division staff are prioritizing red pine salvage sales to minimize the risk of destruction from bark beetles. Salvage sales of all other species will be available in the coming weeks.

Companies with current timber sale contracts that sustained damage from the ice storm event are asked to contact the DNR forest management unit manager listed on the contract and work directly with them. 

Companies that purchase salvage sales or harvest existing sales that were damaged will receive free contract extensions. Get specific details on this process from the unit manager for the sales under contract and newly purchased salvage sales.

The DNR's Forest Resources Division commends the support and coordination of everyone across all sectors of the forest industry. Swift actions and willingness to discuss best practices is greatly appreciated.

“Salvaging and removing downed and damaged trees as quickly and efficiently as possible are critical to moving our forests into the next phase of recovery and restoration,” said Jeff Stampfly, Michigan’s state forester and chief of the DNR Forest Resources Division. “Everyone shares the goal of protecting the long-term health and vitality of our state forest lands, and these timber sales are a key part in the process.”

Direct questions to Brenda Haskill, DNR timber sales program manager at 989-370-9557 or HaskillB@Michigan.gov.