Michigan's deer hunting problem isn't going away
A worrying trend of falling hunter numbers has continued in 2024. There are big implications for the rest of the environment and deer population if it doesn't stop.
'Crash Responders Safety Week' has officials reminding Michigan drivers to pay attention on the road
It's Crash Responders Safety Week, which is a chance to bring awareness to those who put their lives on the line while working in dangerous conditions. It is also a reminder to slow down, and not drive distracted while on the road.
Beaver management rules of Michigan trout fisheries draws critics after DNR revises policy
Without a predator to hunt them and as the number of trappers has fallen, beaver populations have grown in Michigan, bringing their destructive capabilities along the way.
Do Not Eat Advisory in effect for deer at northern Michigan marsh due to PFAS contamination
PFAS contamination has been found in deer and other animals that live in the marsh. The chemicals don't break down in the environment.
Viral deer disease on the rise in Michigan with potential for 'significant outbreak' of EHD in 2024
EHD, or epizootic hemorrhagic disease, spreads in bursts in local wildlife pockets of Michigan. They can lead to thousands of deaths in deer.
Some electric bikes now allowed on Michigan trails
It's a major development for Michigan's trail network, which has historically been reserved for mountain bikers and those on foot or on horseback.
Michigan adds invasive lesser celandine plant to state's watch list
Say hello to the newest plant to be added to Michigan's invasive species list. It grows, flowers, releases seeds, and dies well before summer starts - making it really tough to manage.
Michigan DNR land auction includes waterfront parcels and 80-acreage forests
From lake fronts to vacant parcels nuzzled in forests, there are more than a few properties up for grabs in Michigan's upcoming land auction.
Michigan's wolf population at its highest in 12 years, survey finds
Apart from one strange occurrence in Calhoun County when a coyote hunter shot and killed a wolf earlier this year, there is no present population below the Straits of Mackinac.
Increase in Michigan deer harvests in 2023 is an encouraging sign for managers
For the first time in decades, there was a reported rise in the number of deer harvested in Michigan that wasn't associated with a policy change or a pandemic.
Gray wolf shot by Michigan hunter in rare Lower Peninsula sighting for species
It's been a hundred years since a wolf has been seen this far south in Michigan. “You have much better luck of getting struck by lightning than seeing one in Calhoun County again," a biologist said.
Michigan bear populations climbing fast in lower peninsula, more gradually in UP
Bear numbers have spiked in the lower peninsula over the past 10 years, the DNR found.
Michigan DNR hiring temporary wildlife workers for spring
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is hiring for temporary spring wildlife positions, including wildlife assistants and wildlife state workers.
DNR launches Deer Management Initiative to boost harvest and hunter numbers
From disease and land use issues to falling hunter numbers, Michigan is up against a series of challenges it's never faced.
Target shooting near Port Huron banned due to homes and trees being riddled with bullets
Most of the DNR's signs telling shooters where to fire have been damaged or stolen. They included a warning that failing to follow the rules would result in targeted shooting being prohibited.
Wild cougar in Michigan's U.P. caught on trail camera hunting deer, dragging carcass away
Riveting trail camera footage filmed the moment a cougar caught a deer. The same trail camera then filmed the cougar walking away from the scene, dragging the deer in its mouth.
Michigan to offer track chairs at 25 state parks after hitting fundraising goal
Some 15 state parks already offer track chairs for those who use a wheelchair to explore beaches, trails, and even rivers. Thanks to the DNR hitting its fundraising goal, that number is expected to grow.
Falling hunter numbers in Michigan among several challenges managing deer
In the early 2000s, Michigan had over 800,000 deer hunters. Twenty years later, that figure has almost been cut in half.
State charges suspended DNR officer who shot camper at mid-Michigan park
The victim sued after suffering "numerous and permanent serious injuries", including a loss of a kidney, when he was shot by the off-duty DNR officer.
Michigamme Highlands conservation project gets $1 million in grant funding
The Michigamme Highlands is part of a massive conservation project in the Upper Peninsula that would add a significant portion of protected land to the state.