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If you live adjacent to, have a cottage or camp near, or simply like to spend time on state-managed forest land in Luce County and the northwest portion of Chippewa County, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds that there’s an opportunity to look over and comment on proposed 2018 forest plans for these areas.

October open house

The DNR will host an open house Tuesday, Oct. 11, 3-6 p.m. at the DNR Newberry Field Office, 5666 State Highway M-123, Newberry.   

For more efficient oversight, the DNR divides each forest management unit into smaller units or “compartments.” This year, compartments under review are in Whitefish township (Chippewa County) and Columbus, McMillan and Pentland townships (Luce County).

Maps and information regarding proposed management activities (treatments) can be found atwww.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 “Newberry” 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.

October meeting – final treatment plans

The DNR will complete its formal compartment review Tuesday, Oct. 25, to decide on final treatment plans for these areas. That meeting will take place at 9 a.m. at the Newberry Correctional Facility, 3001 Newberry Ave., Newberry. 

If you have a disability that requires accommodations to attend these meetings, please contact Keith Magnusson at magnussonk@michigan.gov or 906-293-3293, ext. 4740 prior to each meeting.

Those unable to attend the meetings are encouraged to submit comments via email to Keith Magnusson using the subject line “Newberry 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.