What's New
In February,
2006, the House passed a bill that would require the state to put the trees in
our state forests up for sale every 10 years unless it would be illegal or
unsustainable to do so. This startling mandate would run roughshod over all the
other purposes our state forests serve, such as vacation destinations, wildlife
habitat, and a true wilderness heritage to share with the next generation.
In early May, a version of
this bill was approved by a Senate committee, and will soon be voted on
by the full Senate. Environment Michigan is working to prevent this
bill
from becoming law in either form.
Read
our testimony.
Background
Michigan is the proud home to nearly 19
million acres of forestlands and over 12,000 lakes that give the state its
character, provide habitat for wildlife, and offer abundant recreational
opportunities, forming the backbone of our $12 billion tourist economy.
But our
woodlands are more than just an economic engine. They are our favorite
places
up north—whether it’s the quiet solitude along the AuSable River, the
thundering grandeur of Tahquamenon Falls, the dramatic old-growth
vistas of the
Porcupine Mountains, or just that special out-of-the-way spot that only
folks in the know can find—and they are what make Michigan a great
place to live, work and play.
Experiencing Michigan’s wild heritage
is a fundamental part of our culture. To ensure that present and future
generations can continue the traditions that Michigan’s woodlands make possible, we must
ensure that:
•
Our forests are managed to provide opportunities
for recreation; habitat for fish, game, and plants; and to preserve their
beauty for future generations.
•
Our wilderness is kept free from mining,
drilling, and other activities that pollute and degrade.
•
Our scarce old-growth forestlands are protected
and expanded.
•
Our public forestlands are not sold for private development.
