NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 22, 2025
Contact: Rod Russell, Director, Department of Public Works, (269) 329-4444
Timber Harvest Permits Available
The City of Portage is accepting applications for Fuel Wood Harvest Permits as part of the city’s Timber Harvest Program, which launches on November 1, 2025. The program allows Portage residents to collect firewood from designated harvest areas while supporting responsible, sustainable forest management.
The Timber Harvest Program helps maintain healthy city forests, removes downed trees from the May 2024 tornado, and encourages the regeneration of native species. Harvest areas have been carefully reviewed by forestry professionals to ensure long-term forest health and environmental protection.
The City of Portage has also contracted with American Arbor, a local company, to conduct large-scale tree remediation on tornado-damaged city properties. Fuel Wood Harvest Permits will be coordinated with these efforts to prevent overlap and ensure safe, efficient operations.
The harvest is scheduled during the fall months to reduce the risk of spreading tree diseases such as oak wilt. Some temporary disruptions, such as equipment noise or restricted access to wooded areas, may occur during active harvest periods. The city will communicate any major impacts in advance.
Residents who obtain a permit must follow all rules and conditions outlined in the permit to ensure public safety and environmental stewardship.
For more information, including permit applications, harvest site maps, and program guidelines, visit portagemi.gov/968. For questions or assistance with applications, please contact the Department of Public Works at (269) 329-4444.