Whenever an owner of any timbered land, not less than 40 acres, shall wish to have a temporary highway laid out, over which a logging railroad may be operated on conditions hereinafter stated, he may in writing make application to the township supervisor of the proper township for that purpose, who shall proceed to impanel a jury, or submit the matter to commissioners if the parties in interest so desire, and the proceedings shall be substantially the same as provided in this chapter for opening private roads.
MCL 229.7