DNR seeks input on comprehensive strategy for public lands

The power of public lands is the simple but meaningful idea has been at the heart of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ efforts, over the past year, to update its strategy for nearly 4.6 million acres of state forests, parks, trails, game and wildlife areas, and other public lands.

A complete, comprehensive draft is now available for review at Michigan.gov/PublicLands.

The DNR invites the public and stakeholders to provide input y  by emailing DNR-LandStrategy@Michigan.gov or through an online survey.

Feedback will be accepted through Feb. 12.

In 2013, the DNR created a land strategy to provide a framework for conserving and managing public lands to ensure their best use for Michigan residents and visitors and the state’s natural resources.

The DNR has gathered input from around the state. The comprehensive draft strategy now available for review incorporates input from the public and stakeholders received in the fall of 2020.

Feedback will be incorporated, as appropriate, in the development of a final land strategy, which will be submitted to the Legislature by July 1.

The updated public land strategy will guide the DNR in accomplishing goals of:

• Protecting and preserving Michigan’s natural and cultural resources.

• Providing spaces for quality outdoor recreation opportunities.

• Performing responsible natural resources management.

Additional information about the strategy can be found at Michigan.gov/PublicLands.