This document…

Explores vegetation conditions of the Michigamme Highlands ecoregion of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan to inform future conservation efforts there. Here we:

  • Provide basic graphics and interpretations of the Michigamme Highlands vegetation, past and present,
  • Identify degraded lands on Northern Hardwoods sites,
  • Summarize conditions of existing vegetation cover, height and type

For this assessment we clipped LANDFIRE’s Biophysical Settings (BpS, represents historical ecosystems), Existing Vegetation Cover, Height and Type (EVC, EVH and EVT, ReMap version, ca 2016) to the Michigamme Highlands polygon supplied by Emily Clegg.

For more information on LANDFIRE and the datasets please visit www.landfire.gov.

This document is a starting point, or Phase 1 of potential work in the Michigamme Highlands. It is indended to be an introductory look at the Michigamme Highlands and not an in-depth analysis of the area. Please see the Summary for potential directions this work and for contact information of the authors.


View from the summit of Hogback, looking across part of the Michigamme Highlands


Background & Brief Definitions

Location and significance

The Michigamme Highlands of the central Upper Peninsula of MI are “known for containing a diverse range of habitats … [f]orests, wetlands, lakes, rivers and rock outcroppings all connect together in a beautifully pristine area” (see more about conservation there at https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/wilderness-lakes-reserve/).

The dynamics of land ownership in this area present ongoing opportunities for protection and ecologically focused management.