DNR strategic initiatives

More specialized, the strategic initiatives build upon the foundation that is laid by the day-to-day work of DNR staff as outlined in the goals, strategies and measurable objectives. These initiatives offer an opportunity to improve upon existing programs and priorities, leverage partnerships in an effort to strengthen and broaden the impacts of the DNR's work, learn about public perceptions and needs, and better plan for the future. An investment of dedicated resources from funding to personnel may be required in order to accomplish the work outlined in these strategic initiatives.

1. Conduct a comprehensive statewide public survey of the perception of DNR-managed public lands and public land ownership. The results of this survey will be used in the development of the next iteration of the land strategy, due to be submitted to the Legislature in 2027.
2. Resolve issues of federal funding and management compatibility with facilities, land management and land-use practices to ensure compliance with grant and program requirements.
3. Update and expand information about known cultural resources on DNR-managed public lands and state bottomlands for inclusion in the State Historic Preservation Office statewide inventory and databases.
4. Undertake a comprehensive review of DNR-managed public land records to ensure they are current, accurate and can be referenced geographically.
5. Complete a roads plan to ensure appropriate amounts of motorized and nonmotorized access to DNR-managed public lands, while also considering resource protection, infrastructure maintenance and management access.
6. Review existing proposed nominations, as required by statute, to dedicate areas of DNR-managed public lands as wilderness areas, wild areas or natural areas.
7. Work with partners to establish one new "signature park" in a core urban area as a tool for urban revitalization, thus establishing a prototype model of collaboration that can be used in other cities. Considerations will include planning for equal opportunity and inclusive access to outdoor recreation activities for people of all backgrounds and abilities and looking for opportunities to partner with local and regional transportation entities to develop access opportunities.
8. Work with partners including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry to build a collaboration prototype to use public lands as a basis to foster economic growth, placemaking^ and cultural identity^ in three Michigan communities.

From a strategic approach of acquiring public lands to carrying out the measurable objectives and strategies that will achieve the priority goals of the DNR to the implementation of the progressive strategic initiatives, the DNR is committed to acting on behalf of residents for the benefit of Michigan's public lands, natural resources and communities. The conservation of the state's unparalleled natural resources, the diverse array of recreation opportunities, and the responsibility to sustainably manage Michigan's natural resources depend on the foundation that DNR-managed public lands provide.