DNR Halts Future Considerations for Solar Lease on Public Land

Justin Tomei • January 17, 2025

DNR Halts Future Considerations for Solar Lease on Public Land

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced they will be halting consideration of future solar arrays on public land for the foreseeable future.

According to an Mlive article, the DNR cited the public outcry for the pause.

The change came after a proposal to lease 420 acres of public land for a solar array was announced earlier in January.

The proposal for the initial 420 acres will continue with an approximate three-month comment period and may or may not result in a request for proposal (RFP) at the conclusion.

MUCC submitted a letter to the department and released a supplementing statement expounding the position of its members.

The department should not consider any further solar leases on public lands until transparent criteria are created, said Justin Tomei, MUCC Policy and Government Affairs Manager.

“The department needs to clearly define, through a public input process, what constitutes marginal lands, the parcels that are considered in a proposal, the scorecard used to decide what parcels are open for lease and include any accompanying land acquisitions to recoup lost acreage,” said Tomei. “Until that time it is not appropriate for the DNR to lease publicly owned land for these purposes. The department is doing the correct thing, listening to the recommendations of our members, and pausing these lease proposals for the time being.”

Inevitably the legislature will be considering forest planning, and solar array siting legislation in both chambers.

To ensure our natural resources remain protected and managed thoughtfully and our outdoor heritage defended, join Michigan United Conservation Clubs today: http://bit.ly/JoinMUCC.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 15, 2025

MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed! Rochester Hills, MI — April 15, 2025 — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) is proud to announce its 250th On the Ground (OTG) habitat improvement project: a community clean-up of the Clinton River at Yates Park in Rochester Hills. The event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM . In partnership with Metro-West Steelheaders and the Clinton River Watershed Council, this initiative aims to enhance fish and wildlife habitats by removing trash from the river and surrounding riparian zones. The project not only benefits local ecosystems but also fosters a cleaner, healthier community and environment. Event Details: Location: Yates Park, 1990 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM What to Bring: Work gloves (if available), appropriate outdoor attire, and a reusable water bottle. MUCC will provide waders, trash grabbers, trash bags, lunch, and a volunteer appreciation gift. This milestone event underscores MUCC's commitment to conservation and community engagement. "Reaching our 250th project is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and partners," said Olivia Triltsch, MUCC's Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator. "We invite everyone to join us in making a tangible impact on our natural resources." Registration: Interested volunteers should register by Friday, April 18, at 2:00 PM. To expedite check-in, please complete the digital volunteer waiver individually for each participant. Individuals under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver. For late registrations or cancellations, contact Olivia Triltsch at otriltsch@mucc.org. MUCC is always excited to work alongside the Clinton River Watershed Council. Their continued efforts to protect, enhance, and promote the Clinton River and its watershed are deeply valued. Together, we make a greater impact on ensuring clean, healthy waterways and thriving wildlife habitats for generations to come.