Outdoor News and Notes from Across the North – October 2013 Edition

Here are few “newsy” items that may be of interest for northern Michigan outdoor types.

Still Time for Forestry Open House/Compartment Review Comment

Although some have come and gone, there is still time to participate in several MDNR Forestry Compartment Review and Open House sessions for the 2015 Year of Entry.  Those sessions for Atlanta, Cadillac, Grayling, Newberry, and Shingleton Management Units remain to be held.  The detailed forest management plans for each of the units can be retrieved from the MDNR website.

Michigan’s National Wildlife Refuges and National Parks Closed

Without going all “government shutdown” on you, it is relevant to many of us that the National Wildlife Refuges and Parks here in Michigan have been closed pending resolution of the funding impasse. The good news here is that the wildlife is entirely oblivious to the political posturing in D.C. and elsewhere and will continue to go about their own business.

“Pure Michigan” Hunts

Winners of this year’s Pure Michigan Hunts are well on their way to filling their menu of available tags.  According to this week’s MDNR press release, all three winners have recently harvested bear, including one from the Cadillac area which weighed in at some 450 pounds. Two of the three have also taken their elk and with one hunter electing to wait for the traditional December Elk Hunt season.  Missed out last year? You may purchase entry chances on-line here or by clicking the link at the top of our masthead.

New Hunting and Fishing License Fee Package Approved

Last month, Governor Snyder signed  House Bill 4668, thereby creating Public Act 108 of 2013. As has been written here and elsewhere, getting this accomplished was no small task. The 17 year gap in between license fee adjustments had caused continued reductions in field staffing, law enforcement and habitat management.

According to DNR Director Keith Creagh, the new license structure will help keep Michigan’s costs competitive with other Great Lakes states.

“This improvement to Michigan’s hunting and fishing licenses is great news for our customers and for the natural resources we work hard to protect and promote,” said Creagh. “Moving from more than 200 licenses to just over 40 will create a purchase experience that is simpler and much more efficient for residents and visitors.

“Michigan is known for its world-class natural resources. With this revenue and working with our partners, we’ll be able to maintain and improve those resources for current and future generations.”

These license and pricing options take effect March 1, 2014. Costs and options for the fall and winter 2013 seasons remain unchanged.