VANDERBILT, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The Pigeon River Country State Forest in Otsego County is home to Michigan’s elk herd, crystal-clear sinkhole lakes, and world-class trout streams. Now, thanks to a partnership involving federal funds, state grants, and private funding, this “Big Wild” forest is nearly 8,850 acres bigger.

In December 2025, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) purchased the Black River Ranch property in the eastern portion of the Pigeon River Country for $10.6 million. A celebration of this landmark acquisition is planned for Friday, July 17, at 1 p.m.

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“The purchase of the Black River Ranch property was a rare opportunity to bring one of the last remaining large, intact, private forested tracts in the Lower Peninsula into public ownership,” said Jeff Stampfly, Michigan’s state forester. “With its incredible forests, lakes, streams, critical wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities, this property will be enjoyed for generations of Michiganders to come.”

The property is open to the public, but motorized access is currently prohibited. The DNR must complete an assessment and gather public input regarding access to and use of the property.

The DNR says the Forest Legacy Program has helped Michigan protect more than 238,000 acres of forest land.