Blandin Paper of Grand Rapids is reminding hunters that building permanent tree stands on its property is illegal, and any stands that are found will be torn down.
Already the company has removed 80 permanent stands.
Blandin said in a press release on Friday it is illegal to attempt to reserve any portion of its forest land by intimidation, hunting stand construction, placing personal locks on company gates, or placement of signs.
"Beginning in 2007 we posted new signs on our lands and published articles to educate hunters on our land use policy," said Jim Marshall, Blandin forest resources manager. "We are asking hunters to remove stands they may have built on company land in the past."
Blandin said its policy allows only temporary portable stands or blinds on its property. The use of any stand or steps that are permanently affixed to trees using nails or screws, or is permanently affixed to the ground is not allowed.
Small, legal-height temporary portable stands or blinds that do not damage live trees are allowed.
Blandin also reminded hunters that:
•Occupying permanent stands is not allowed.
•Mowing roads, trails, edges and openings is prohibited.
•Cutting live vegetation, trees or brush is not allowed.
• All trash and shell casings should be picked up.
