It's your chance to voice your opinion on the state's trail and road system



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Oct. 31, 2025
Contact: Amy Liverpool <[email protected]>, 906-287-5376

Public invited to comment on proposed state forest road map updates by Dec. 1

off-road vehicles ride single-file down a state forest road amid autumn-hued trees near Marquette, Michigan

A series of proposed updates to Michigan’s state forest roads is now open for public review and comment. These map changes are aimed at ensuring responsible, sustainable management of the state’s extensive forest road network.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources regularly reviews and updates the state forest road inventory to keep it accurate and aligned with current regulations. This year’s proposed changes are based on field assessments conducted by DNR staff and an in-depth review of public feedback collected throughout the year.

*Why are updates needed?*

Each year, the DNR conducts a comprehensive review of Michigan’s state forest roads to maintain the quality and accessibility of these routes while protecting the natural resources they connect. The review process also helps ensure the DNR continues to respond to changing conditions, evolving recreational use and community input.

Additional state trails or roads may be closed as a result of the historic northern Michigan ice storm [ [link removed] ] that took place in March 2025. Over 3,400 miles of state roads were affected by the storm, and storm debris cleanup is an ongoing effort.

Under Public Act 288 of 2016 [ [link removed] ], off-road vehicle use is allowed on state forest roads unless otherwise designated by the DNR. The law also requires ongoing mapping and inventory of these roads. It’s important to note that this review applies only to state forest roads and does not affect ORV use on other roads, such as those managed by counties or townships.

Proposed updates may include:


* Mapping roads that were previously unmapped or removing roads that no longer exist.
* Opening or closing roads for conventional (street-legal) vehicle use.
* Opening or closing roads for off-road vehicle use.
* Adjusting seasonal access on certain roads.

Share feedback by Dec. 1

The DNR invites the public to review the proposed updates and share input by Dec. 1 through any of the following options:


* *Online*: Visit Michigan.gov/ForestRoads [ [link removed] ] to view an interactive map [ [link removed] ] or download printable PDF versions of the proposed updates.
* *Email*: Send comments directly to [email protected].

Public comments also will be accepted during upcoming Michigan Natural Resources Commission meetings [ [link removed] ] in early 2026. The proposed updates will be presented for review at the commission’s January and February meetings, with a formal decision expected from the DNR director at the February meeting.

Updated state forest road maps, incorporating public feedback and management input, will be published online and take effect April 1, 2026. 



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*Note to editors:* An accompanying photo is available below for download. Caption information follows.


* Off-roading: [ [link removed] ] Riders enjoy Michigan's road and trail system near Marquette, Michigan.

 


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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Michigan Department of Natural Resources · Deborah A. Stabenow Building, 525 W. Allegan St., PO Box 30028 Lansing MI 48909 · 1-800-439-1420