Public can review forest plans on DNR website

LANSING, MI (AP)--   The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has posted updated draft plans for managing state forests on its website for public inspection. 

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The department has developed separate plans for the eastern Upper Peninsula, western Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula. Officials say they consulted with a variety of groups representing interests such as government, outdoor recreation, forest products and conservation.

After being adopted, the plans will guide DNR decisions about activities and treatments on Michigan's nearly 4 million acres of state forest land.

A public comment period that began October 1 has been extended to March 8.

The DNR's Forest Resources Division is holding meetings across the state to answer questions.

The plans are available at www.michigan.gov/dnr.