Is Michigan a free roam state? and where can I find this information?

Question

Are cattle allowed to roam free, not with in fences or is in some violation?

Answer 1

I am not sure if this what you are looking for but i know that Michigan prohibits grazing cattle on state owned land.
The act is known as MCL § 322.581:

" AN ACT to prohibit the running at large on or the grazing upon any land owned by or under the control of the department of conservation, by cattle, horses, sheep and swine; to provide for the enforcement of this act; and to prescribe penalties for the violation of the provisions of this act.[1]
"

I also know that in ANY state if you graze cattle with no fence and it does some damage you will be held strictly liable.

Answer 2

Today most states require that you fence in cattle. You are held liable for any damage the livestock causes if they are not properly fenced in and the fences are not maintained. I would not take that chance if it were me. Main other states, more in the West, will lease state land to farmers to raise cattle on, but they must fence them out of flowing streams and waterways.

I'm sure there are some places in Northern Michigan or the UP where it seems you could let cattle roam free, but you never know what could happen and other property owners could sue you for ANY damage to their property.

Answer 3

http://www.dowagiacnews.com/articles/2006/07/07/news/dnnews3.txt
IF the link still works it's an article about a friend of mine who was arrested, charged, tried, & convicted for the crime of letting her horses roam. I'd assume it would have the same implications for cattle.