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Upper Peninsula Representatives voice concerns over DNR plans to lease land in Northern Michigan for a solar energy farm.
Last week MLIVE reported on DNR plans to seek a lease agreement for a 420-acre site near Gaylord. A potential project would fall in line with the department’s exploration in recent years to find ways the state’s public land may impact the country’s renewable energy transition. Within the state forest management plan Michigan DNR outlines hopes to lease about 4000 acres for renewable energy projects.
Representative Markkanen pointed toward the DNR’s mission outlined by the state constitution, believing a potential solar farm on public land would abandon its goal to develop and responsibly manage Michigan natural resources. Adding timber harvests and mineral rights has stimulated growth for Michigan manufacturing in years past.
The DNR posted a notice for the intent to lease the land on Tuesday last week notifying municipalities of a fifteen-day window to request a public hearing with the department, prior to a public comment period. Those interested in learning more about the Upper Peninsula representative coalition’s statements against DNR’s intentions to seek lease agreements for renewable energy projects can find more details here.
