The Outdoor Wire

Recent Land Transactions

View of the Bavin Tract purchase. Photo courtesy of Michigan DNR 

Here are some highlights of land transactions from the second quarter of 2026. To view the full details, click the View more button below.

Bavin Tract

The DNR purchased 40 acres of land in Hillsdale County to be managed as part of the Lost Nation State Game Area. The property is largely wooded wetland and creates a link between the Northwest and Central management units at Lost Nation, providing consolidation of DNR-managed lands and the conservation of wildlife corridors. The property was purchased with a grant provided by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

Thunder Bay River Headwaters Tract

The DNR purchased 320 acres of land in Montmorency County to be managed as part of the Atlanta Forest Management Unit. The property contains upland and lowland forest and a wetland complex. The variety of land cover contributes to the diversity of wildlife, including elk, white-tailed deer, black bear, and ruffed grouse. Water features include the headwaters of the North Fork of the Thunder Bay River, which traverses the property and provides approximately 3,600 feet of river frontage and trout habitat. Acquisition consolidates DNR-managed lands, creates opportunity for forest management and recreation, and enhances game and non-game wildlife habitat. The property was purchased with funds provided by the Land Exchange Facilitation Fund. Ess Lake Development Corporation provided a $231,000 donation in the form of a bargain sale.

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