Public Participation

The Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division has embarked on an 18-month process to update the 2013 Statewide Trails Plan to continue to manage a trail system that reflects the relevant needs and desires of its users. With the assistance of the Michigan Trails Advisory Council, the DNR has developed a draft vision and strategic goals to be incorporated in the updated trails plan.

The DNR is seeking public input and participation through an online survey and a series of virtual public forums. You are invited to participate in virtual forums, through the survey or both.

Draft vision and Strategic goals

Public Survey

An online survey has been launched to help the DNR understand residents’ preferences, use of, and satisfaction with trails in Michigan. Provide your input by completing this survey, which will be available through November 1, 2020. The survey will also be made available to all public engagement participants at the completion of each session.

Take Survey

Virtual Public Engagement Sessions

To ensure all trail users and residents have ample opportunity to provide input, the DNR has scheduled seven meetings; each should last no longer than 75 minutes. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend the regional or use-specific meeting which best aligns with the recreational destination or pursuits. As part of each forum, the draft vision and goals will be reviewed in greater detail and participations will be able to provide feedback.

To attend a forum, please register by choosing a date below.

People horseback riding down a trails in the woods

Thursday, Oct. 1     6 p.m.
Upper Peninsula region

View Webinar

Tuesday, Oct. 6     6 p.m.
Motorized trails users

View Webinar

Thursday, Oct. 8     6 p.m.
Northern Lower Peninsula region

View Webinar

Tuesday, Oct. 13     6 p.m.
Southwest Michigan region

View Webinar

Thursday, Oct. 15     6 p.m.
Southeast Michigan region

View Webinar

Tuesday, Oct. 20     6 p.m.
Non-motorized trails users

View Webinar

Thursday Oct. 22     6 p.m.
Water trails users

View Webinar

For more information, or to request special accommodations, please contact Cody Proudfoot at cproudfoot@publicsectorconsultants.com. All meetings will be recorded and posted to the Michigan Trails Plan website at the completion of the public engagement period.