Going Coconuts for Recreation Trails? Us Too.

ORV trails offer some of the most exciting non-aquatic recreation you can get in Michigan, with over 4,000 miles of trails spanning our state! These trails, offering valuable access to our natural environment, often require disruptive initial construction and then maintenance every year--during which there’s a high chance that vernal pools or other water sources like rivers and streams could be impacted. A highly common issue on recreational trails, especially in the early months, is the pooling of water on the trail, making them inaccessible despite warm weather.

“As of March 17th 2025, all trails are in fair to poor condition,” Ryan Laporte, President of the Keweenaw Snowmobile Club and appointed member of the Michigan Trails and Advisory Council reports. The Michigan Trails Advisory Council advises the DNR and the governor on the creation, development, operation and maintenance of motorized and non-motorized trails in the state, including snowmobile, biking, equestrian, hiking, off-road vehicle and skiing trails. In discussion with Laporte, we came to the agreement very quickly that the degradation of our trails is caused by the intersection of natural processes and human recreational activities. The club more recently reports that as of April 3rd, snowfall has reached over 300” and for riders to expect spring-like, ungroomed conditions.

This weather in northern Michigan during the transition from winter to spring to summer historically oscillates, and as the snow melts back into our waters, outdoor enthusiasts will be looking to switch from winter recreation activities like snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing to the dominating summer activity: off-roading! (Well, maybe not yet…)

Governor Gretchen Whitmer on March 31st declared a 10-county disaster area, which was later expanded to 12 counties, including Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego and Presque Isle.

“Storm damage is extensive, and many trails are impassable and unsafe,” said Tim Novak, state trails coordinator for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “Significant time will be needed to assess and address affected areas. Many areas may also be affected by erosion and culvert issues from the recent rains.” Emergency funds have been allocated to the northern lower peninsula counties to address this water damage.

2025 ice storm damage over a trail in Gaylord, MI - photo courtesy of MLive

Especially during the spring months, many ORV trails are closed for maintenance related to undirected water and lack of sediment control, or are simply inaccessible because there’s nothing in place to control the pooling water. So…what do we do with all of this water? 

Using coir logs and blankets, which are made from woven coconut fiber, would curtail extraneous run off, providing a clear trail and preserving water resources for the native inhabitants already there. Keep reading to find out just how these invaluable products can benefit all Michigan inhabitants: plants, animals, and humans alike. 

a common experience for ORV recreationalists

Michigan’s various and ample waters are the trademark of our state and arguably our best natural resource! Not only do we, Eagle Shoreline Protection, wish to protect and strengthen our many lakefronts, but also the smallest of streambanks and rivers, as these allow for the formation of water reservoirs which bring life to the surrounding plants and animals. Even though ORV trails are typically on land, this type of recreation does still affect our waterways and where/how they form in a variety of ways. 

One potential threat is that because ORVs are so powerful and fast, they may uproot and damage existing vegetation that could be supporting a water source from releasing excessive runoff. Another threat that isn't quite as visible, but is very quietly harmful, are pollutants from vehicle exhaust, gas, and oil that can run off into our water sources: not just those we drink from, but also those which provide habitat. By controlling where these pools form - or rather where they do not form, AKA clear of any foot or ORV trails - we can provide habitat for native plants and animals while also providing safer, and earlier access to our trails.

Coir can provide a solution to these man-made and nature-made problems, alongside a more intentional placement of these trails in the future to avoid direct contact with water. However, we realize these trails traverse public, private, and government land across Michigan, so here are some sure-fire tips to make what we already have last. 

Whatever the cause,  BIO-D Coir erosion control blankets and coir logs can be a valuable and economical tool to stabilizing the ORV trails, preventing soil erosion and promoting vegetation growth.

• Use 900 GSM 100% biodegradable coir blanket on each of the sloped banks alongside the trail. This weave allows for plants to grow through the mat and filters pollutants while also retaining earth.

• Install 16” high density coir logs on each side of the trail to soak up water and bolster the shoulder of the trail to deter water over the road and road wash-out.

• Laporte also reminds riders to “avoid trails that are narrower than your vehicle. Full size truck vehicles do the most damage on the 72" wide or less trails. The ruts caused by these full size trucks are very difficult to get out.”

• Plant native Michigan plants: their long roots hold the earth in place AND soak up excess water.

• Redirect runoff water to pools off-trail when possible and plant “rain gardens” around those which seem to be spreading too close to the trail.

Contact Eagle Shoreline Protection for trail assessment services and purchase of coir products from our local warehouse in Chassell, MI. Check out this map of DNR-designated ORV and motorcycle trails in our upper peninsula or TravelMarquette.com to find trails near you!