DNR eyes acquisition of inactive UP rail line
Wells to Channing Grade would be preserved for potential future rail use
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Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division officials are discussing with representatives of the Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad the DNR taking over 60 miles of inactive rail line, potentially for the region's recreational trail network.
"Both the DNR and E&LS are looking at cooperating on purchase/sale of the grade," Ron Yesney, Upper Peninsula trails coordinator for the DNR, said in a news release. "Both parties are interested in preserving the integrity of the grade for future rail use."
DNR and railroad officials met Sept. 25, with the focus on all Escanaba & Lake Superior Railroad grades that are potentially up for sale or are in the process of having their rails pulled.
"The E&LS Railroad is pleased to be working with the Michigan DNR to discuss the acquisition of our Channing to Wells Line to further expand the Upper Peninsula's recreational trail network," said Tim Tennant, E&LS vice president and general manager.
This was the first grade the railroad purchased when it went into business, and at various times it handled passenger service, plus hauling timber and other materials between Escanaba and Channing in Delta and Dickinson counties, respectively.
"There was a very large and interesting series of logging rails that spurred off this grade and extended in many different directions," Yesney said.
The Wells to Channing grade would help connect communities and trails across the region.
"There is general support for the acquisition, with some concerns about infrastructure condition," Yesney said. "The reasons for support include grade preservation and the potential for future trail usage. The grade also fits well with concepts noted in the State Trails Plan."
Potential funding sources include the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Land Exchange Facilitation Funding and the DNR's Snowmobile Trail Easement Fund.
For more about the DNR's extensive trails across Michigan, go online to https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-trails.