Spring weather causes damage to many Lower Peninsula trails

Contact: Amanda Matelski, 989-275-5151, ext. 2044 or Ed Golder, 517-335-3014

Agency: Natural Resources

April 29, 2013

The recent weather has brought about heavy rain, wind, ice and snow throughout lower Michigan. This has created impassable conditions at several pathways, snowmobile and ORV trails, and forest roads maintained by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in the Lower Peninsula. As a result, the DNR is warning trail users that parts of some trails may be closed due to excessive amounts of standing water and flood conditions, as well as downed trees.

DNR staff is working to assess the worst trail areas, and will work with local trail grant sponsors and volunteers to best mitigate trail impacts.

"It is difficult to identify all of the sections that were affected by the heavy spring rains," said trails analyst Amanda Matelski. "We ask that trail users exercise care when approaching these areas, and realize flooded trail crossings may be deeper than they appear. Our users will also need to have patience while our trail sponsors, volunteers and staff remove downed trees."

Trail conditions are expected to improve moving into the summer season. It is important to note that maintenance to all designated off-road vehicle trails will be completed by Memorial Day.

If riders have questions regarding specific areas, or come across areas in immediate need of attention, please contact Amanda Matelski at the Roscommon Operations Service Center at 989-275-5151, ext. 2044.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.