Michigan Forest Legacy Program Now Accepting Nominations

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting nominations for the national Forest Legacy Program. This initiative is supported by specialized funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at protecting environmentally important forests. Interested parties include private forest landowners, tribal members, and conservation organizations. Proposed projects must be at least 75% forested and managed according to a forest management plan, with minimum nonmotorized public access. Eligible project categories include large landscape projects, state-tribal partnerships, and strategic small-tract projects, each potentially receiving up to $50 million.

Nominations are due by December 13th. Projects ready for immediate implementation will receive stronger consideration. The DNR will review all submissions and create a prioritized list for the Michigan state forester. Final decisions on funding are expected in the spring, with funds becoming available shortly thereafter. For more details, visit the DNR’s Forest Legacy Program webpage.