GRAYLING- The DNR is reviewing a proposal for the expansion of DNR-leased lands available for Camp Grayling military training activities.
The proposal for approximately 162,000 acres of land around the camp, headquartered west of the City of Grayling in northern lower Michigan, is part of an update to adjust borders to accommodate evolving training methods.
If the proposal is approved, public access to state lands including forest roads for ORV use would hopefully remain. Au Sable and Manistee river access could also remain open. There are no anticipated environmental impacts from the proposal.
It is not known how the expansion will address the federal governments position on PFAS in the AuSable River Valley at large. Chemicals have leaked into the water table in both Grayling amd Oscoda.
Access to portions of the training area will occasionally be restricted for public safety to accommodate military training exercises, as is typical for currently leased lands. “Impact zones” where live fire is directed would not be added to these lands.
Information about training activities would be provided online at UpNorthVoice.com, radio through Blarneystone Boradcasting and various social media channels, including the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center Facebook page.
The military has leased lands for training from the State of Michigan since 1935.
View an FAQ document provided to the DNR by Camp Grayling officials.
