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Michigan Expedites Clearcutting to Boost Elk Habitat

10/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will accelerate clearcutting of aspen in the northeastern Lower Peninsula to support the elk population estimated at 1,146.
The change shortens a 10-year plan into a faster timeframe after a spring ice storm damaged nearly 1 million acres.
Clearcutting will occur in nine subunits across Montmorency and Otsego counties to improve elk habitat and benefit deer by providing fresh growth for browsing.

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Story summary

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will accelerate clearcutting of aspen in the northeastern Lower Peninsula to support the elk population estimated at 1,146.
The change shortens a 10-year plan into a faster timeframe after a spring ice storm damaged nearly 1 million acres.
Clearcutting will occur in nine subunits across Montmorency and Otsego counties to improve elk habitat and benefit deer by providing fresh growth for browsing.