Why Michigan is Selling Off Hundreds of Acres and How to Bid in the DNR Surplus Land Auction

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is preparing to auction off 126 parcels of state-managed land, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to acquire property across the state.

These properties range from less than an acre to 200 acres, with over 20 parcels exceeding 40 acres, primarily located in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula.

But why is the DNR selling this land, and how can interested buyers participate?

Understanding 'Surplus' Land

The DNR manages approximately 4.6 million acres of public land, much of which was acquired through tax reversion before 2000.

Over time, some parcels have been identified as surplus due to factors like lack of public access, small size, or isolation from other DNR-managed properties.

By selling these parcels, the DNR aims to streamline land management and reinvest proceeds into acquiring land that better serves public recreation and conservation goals.

Selection Process for Auction

The DNR conducts regular reviews to identify surplus properties.

From 2020 to 2024, the department evaluated nearly 9,800 parcels totaling over 167,000 acres.

Properties selected for auction are typically those outside the DNR's primary management areas, under 200 acres, and lacking significant public use potential.

Before listing, the DNR consults with local municipalities and conservation organizations to explore possibilities for keeping the land public.

Only after these avenues are exhausted do properties proceed to public auction.

Who Can Bid?

The auctions are open to all interested parties, including out-of-state and international buyers.

Historically, most buyers have been Michigan residents seeking recreational property or adjacent landowners looking to expand their holdings.

Prospective buyers are encouraged to research local ordinances and permitted uses for each property.

Proceeds and Reinvestment

Funds from the auctions are deposited into the Land Exchange Facilitation Fund.

This fund is dedicated to acquiring replacement properties that offer greater public benefit, such as enhancing recreation opportunities and protecting natural resources.

Since January 2020, over 80 parcels totaling more than 6,500 acres have been purchased through this fund.

Upcoming Auction Details

The 2025 auctions will feature properties in the following counties: Alger, Allegan, Barry, Genesee, Gogebic, Grand Traverse, Kent, Lake, Lapeer, Luce, Manistee, Marquette, Mecosta, Midland, Missaukee, Montmorency, Newaygo, Oceana, Ogemaw, Schoolcraft, Washtenaw, and Wexford.

Notable properties include a 0.27-acre forested parcel near Cadillac in Wexford County with 143 feet of frontage on Lake Mitchell.

Auctions are scheduled between August 1 and September 5, with specific dates assigned to each county.

How to Participate

Interested bidders must pre-register and can find more information about the online auction schedule at the designated auction website.

Registration includes a $1,000 hold on a credit card and submission of a social security number to ensure serious participation.

Absentee bids can be made up to 30 days before an auction.

The interactive bidding opens at 10 a.m. on the auction date, allowing bidders to see current high bids.

Bidding continues until 7 p.m., when the highest bidder is determined.

For a detailed property list, including minimum bids, acreage, and maps, visit the DNR's land auction page.

Participating in the DNR's surplus land auction offers a unique chance to own a piece of Michigan's diverse landscapes, from forested acres to waterfront properties.

Whether you're seeking a recreational retreat or an investment opportunity, these auctions provide access to a variety of properties across the state.

Don't miss the chance to explore and bid on these unique parcels.