Here are some highlights of land transactions from the first quarter of 2026. To view the full details, click the View more button below.
Michigamme Highlands
The DNR purchased conservation easement rights over approximately 73,063 acres across Marquette, Baraga, and Iron Counties. The property contains environmentally important private forest lands that were threatened by conversion to non-forest use. The private landowner will manage the property under the terms of the Conservation Easement, which will be enforced by the DNR. The acquisition of the conservation easement prevents subdivision of the land, provides permanent public access to these unique lands, and requires the property to be sustainably managed as a working forest, which will provide wood fiber to the market and help to support the local rural economy. Acquisition of the rights in land was made possible by a United States Forest Service Forest Legacy Program grant of $15,075,000, a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant of $4,200,000, and a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant of $1,00,000. For more information, see our showcasing story: Showcasing the DNR: Protecting the wildest of Michigan's wild places
Verdant Recreational Trail
The DNR purchased approximately 15 miles of recreational trail easements in Keweenaw and Houghton Counties. Acquisition of the easement rights permanently secures and connects trail access in perpetuity, providing public recreation opportunities and securing trails for future generations. The trails are dedicated to U.P. Snowmobile Trail No. 3 and provide dual use for trail ORV B. The easement rights were purchased with the Michigan Permanent Snowmobile Easement Fund.