© 2024 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Michigan Lawmakers To Debate Forest Diversity Plan

WKAR File Photo

A fight is brewing in the Michigan Legislature over management of state forest land.

A Senate committee has scheduled a hearing for Thursday on a bill that would limit the Department of Natural Resources' authority to manage sections of state forests with a primary goal of promoting plant and animal biodiversity.
 
Senator Tom Casperson of Escanaba in sponsoring the measure. He says it's aimed at a DNR program under development that would designate "biodiversity stewardship areas" where logging and motorized recreation might be off-limits.
 
The DNR says those activities could still be allowed if compatible with conservation goals. But the department says there would be no net loss of logging or recreation opportunities in state forests.
 
Environmentalists oppose the bill and say promoting biodiversity is good for jobs and nature.

    

Hello, I'm Brad Walker, head of operations for WKAR Radio and manager for WKAR Radio Reading Service, which is our service for blind and visually-impaired persons in mid-Michigan. You may also hear me from time to time on WKAR TV and Radio talking about many of our wonderful sponsors.
Journalism at this station is made possible by donors who value local reporting. Donate today to keep stories like this one coming. It is thanks to your generosity that we can keep this content free and accessible for everyone. Thanks!