What’s happening: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is ready to take on the new year with their new five-year Parks and Recreation Division Strategic Plan in place, but not before giving the general public the opportunity to provide a little constructive criticism first. Michiganders have until Friday, Jan. 20, to review the plan and provide comment as part of the DNR’s public input period.
What it is: The Michigan DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division Strategic Plan for 2023 through 2027 will serve as sort of a guide book for the state agency as it manages Michigan’s vast network of state parks and recreation areas, identifying priorities, goals and objectives, future development plans, and more. This iteration currently under review is expected to go into effect in spring 2023.
How to participate: Visit the Michigan DNR online to review the Strategic Plan. Email
DNR-PRD-Planning@Michigan.gov with comments and suggestions, now and through Friday, Jan. 20.
Why it’s important: The public input period is a key part of the process, says Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation Division chief. It’s also something that stands to affect a lot of people. The DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division oversees 103 state parks and recreation areas, the state’s boating program, its motorized and non motorized trails system, and 140 state forest campgrounds.
What they’re saying: "In Michigan, our diverse natural, cultural and recreation resources have always played a defining role in residents’ quality of life and, in a sense, our very identity as Michiganders," says Olson. "People come back year after year, making memories at state parks, trails, campgrounds and harbors, and it’s vital that we have a clear plan to protect these unique resources while anticipating and meeting customers’ expectations."
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