Michigan's pine, which proved more valuable than all California's gold, was gone by the early 1900's, and the original hardwoods were cut by 1935. Today, due to fire protection and increasing management, more timber is grown than ever before. Within one mile are headquartered three of the largest forest management organizations in the Upper Peninsula: Mead Corporation, the largest wood industry in Michigan, managing 690,000 acres; the Hiawatha National Forest, managing 880,000 acres; and the DNR's Escanaba River State Forest, managing 417,000 acres. Michigan's forest, a priceless renewable resource, will provide recreational, economic and spiritual benefit forever.