(WWJ) -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is investigating a suspected arson in a wooded state game area in West Michigan that damaged tens of thousands of dollars worth of lumber.
The DNR says a helicopter crew was flying over the Allegan State Game Area in the early morning hours of Sunday, Sept. 26 when they discovered a “significant fire” in the area. The Allegan State Game area is located in southwest Michigan’s Allegan County, offering more than 50,000 acres of land for hunting and recreation.
The crew reported that the fire was consuming large logs, which turned out to be two decks of cut timber, each approximately 30 feet tall by 150 feet long -- and all of it nearly burned to the ground.
The estimated value of the lost timber is between $30,000 and $35,000, officials said.
Billsby Lumber Company, which originally purchased the timber, is offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this case.
DNR conservation officers are asking for the tips from the public in relation to the suspected arson fire. The DNR says such fires are rare, as only about 4% of the fires the DNR has responded to over the last five years have been determined to be arson-related.
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“Although the investigation is ongoing, initial evidence suggests arson,” said Sgt. Charles Towns, with the DNR Law Enforcement Division. “This wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment thing.”
The fire is believed to have been started between 10 p.m. on Sept. 25 and 2 a.m. on Sept. 26. Fire-suppression efforts began with the Clyde Township Fire Department, which provides coverage for Valley Township, and were led by the DNR's fire personnel. Assistance was provided by DNR conservation officers, as well as the Fennville City, Allegan District and Lee Township fire departments.
Anonymous tips can be made via the DNR’s Report All Poaching hotline at 800-292-7800. The hotline accepts calls and texts 24 hours a day, seven days a week.