North Michigan News

State Representatives Ken Borton and Mike Hoadley, along with State Senator Michele Hoitenga, have called for significant dismissals within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This follows reports of a plan to clear over 400 acres of forest near Gaylord for solar farm development. The lawmakers argue that those involved in this decision should be removed from their positions, citing a contradiction with the DNR's duty to protect Michigan’s wildlife and forests.

"Mind-numbing decisions like this are absolute proof that the DNR is completely rotten to its core," stated Borton, R-Gaylord. He expressed concern about the potential destruction of habitats and wildlife due to deforestation for solar panels.

Borton criticized the DNR's actions using an analogy from "The Lorax," suggesting that financial incentives from the solar industry have compromised environmental protection efforts.

The legislators also questioned whether the DNR had the authority to lease public land for private purposes when it results in environmental degradation. "The people who made this absurd decision signed up for a job to protect our natural resources," said Hoitenga, R-Manton. She emphasized accountability for what she described as unethical conservation management practices by government officials.

In 2023, legislative Democrats passed green energy laws mandating 100% clean energy by 2040. These laws include closing natural gas plants and increasing reliance on wind and solar power. Experts predict these changes could nearly double average monthly electric bills.

The legislation also transferred authority over green energy projects to the Michigan Public Service Commission, reducing local community input on wind turbine and solar farm placements. "It was clear that Democrat-backed laws enacted during the most recent term would strip local control," said Hoadley, R-Au Gres. He noted rural areas would bear significant impacts from these policies despite opposition from local officials.