Consumers Energy Surpasses Goal to Restore over 6,500 acres of land throughout Michigan

Consumers Energy said it has exceeded its restoration target for Michigan land by increasing efforts to restore, enhance, or protect thousands of acres through 2027. The company announced on July 8, 2026, that it planned to work on 6,500 acres, but had already restored 6,700 acres as of 2026 while continuing to identify additional opportunities for public use. In remarks, Greg Salisbury, senior vice president for electric distribution, said the utility balances economic, cultural, and ecological needs across its forest lands while supplying power and natural gas to its 6.8 million customers. Consumers Energy says typical restoration includes removing invasive species, planting native trees and plants, and enabling conservation easements. The company also reports permitting more than 100 acres of privately owned utility land for public and recreational use across more than 80 communities, with 72 trails supporting hiking, biking, and other non-motorized recreation.