MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Starting this weekend, youth and teens who wear a life jacket while boating could receive free McDonald’s ice cream. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, conservation officers will pass out vouchers to youth and teens seen appropriately wearing a life jacket while boating. The vouchers are valid for a free ice cream cone or apple slice package at participating McDonald’s of Michigan locations. The DNR offers boating safety education as an online and traditional classroom course to teach new and experienced boaters about current laws and basic survival skills. READ MORE:MDOT removing lane closures to ease Memorial Day travel congestionS.S. Badger: Last coal-powered passenger steamship in U.S. to ditch coalGarden talk: 5 annual flowers that don’t need daily watering

Ever thought about catching and keeping your own nightcrawlers?

Turkey vultures are coming back to Michigan after spending their winter where it’s warmer.

The DNR announced Friday that it has increased the starting hourly rate for seasonal park workers to $15, up from the old starting rate that ranged from $10.20 to $12 depending on region of the state and an applicant’s experience. The DNR says it needs to fill about 400 “critical vacancies” at state parks and harbors as the busy summer gets underway Memorial Day weekend. “Our seasonal summer workers are key to helping us provide great recreation experiences for every visitor. The new $15 hourly pay rate is effective on May 29 and is available to all new seasonal park worker hires, as well as those previously hired for this summer season. Olson said the department was able to make the hourly increase possible by reprioritizing some state parks funding.

The new hourly rate is effective May 29 and is available to all new seasonal park worker hires and previously hired for this summer season.

The Blue Lakes Fire in the northern portion of Michigan’s lower peninsula is now 98% contained, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

The Blue Lakes Fire in Northern Michigan is 75% contained and roads are being opened inside the fire zone while officials use drones to identify hot spots on Monday afternoon, May 16, officials said. RELATED: Warm with low humidity and gusty winds means elevated wildfire danger today, experts say“There may still be hot spots within the contained area,” she said. The DNR is using a drone and infrared imaging to identify those hot spots that need attention, Heckman said. The Black River is also closed between Blue Lakes and Clark Bridge roads until nearby hot spots are identified and addressed. Additional assistance is being provided by Tri-Township EMS, Montmorency County Emergency Management and the Michigan State Police.

The Blue Lakes Fire in the northern portion of Michigan’s lower peninsula is now 75% contained, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Related: Crews battling 2,000-acre wildfire in Northern MichiganEvacuations have occurred at the Black River Ranch, where 12 structures are threatened. They include:East Branch Road and Black River Road between 622 and Canada Creek Road. Clark Bridge Road between Black River Road and Osmun Road. Blue Lakes Road between Hardwood Lake Road and East Branch Road. Black River Road between Blue Lakes Road and the Meridian Line Road and 622 intersection.

Crews in Montmorency and Cheboygan counties are currently battling a wildfire estimated to already have burned approximately 2,000 acres. Black River Road to Camp 30 Road. Clark Bridge Road to Black River Road. Blue Lakes Road to Meridian Line Road. The Black River between Blue Lakes Road and Clark Bridge Road also is closed.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking anglers to help improve fishing opportunities on Lake Superior. Anglers can do so by reporting marked splake caught on the Great Lake. The fish specices is a hybrid cross between lake trout and brook trout and have been stocked in Lake Superior most years since 1971, with annual stocking since 1990. In Lake Superior, the DNR stocks splake in Munising, Copper Harbor and Keweenaw Bay with a goal to create nearshore fishing opportunities in the smaller bays of Lake Superior, where some fisheries are available year-round. Anglers also can report marked splake to DNR creel staff stationed at various ports along the Lake Superior shoreline.

LANSING, MI – As Memorial Day – the unofficial start of the summer season – approaches, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is struggling to fill seasonal jobs at state parks, the Lansing State Journal reports. So far, 636 people have been hired and 123 more are pending drug tests out of the 1,300 seasonal workers needed to run the 101 state parks, the report said. In 2021, the DNR hired just 736 people and filled in the gaps with contractors.

LANSING, MICH. -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ “Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” summer weekend programs are returning this year, with sessions set for the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan. “Becoming an Outdoors Woman is a program where each individual is encouraged to learn at her own pace,” said Michelle Zellar, the program’s coordinator. The program fee is $225, which includes food and lodging, as well as most equipment and supplies. The programs typically fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged, Zellar said. Additionally, a limited number of partial BOW scholarships are available to help low-income participants with the cost of registration.

Do you fish in Lake Superior? The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking anglers to report marked splake.

ENGADINE, MI -- Charges are being sought against a man who is accused of trapping an eagle in a snare for four days recently. Members of the DNR’s wildlife division were able to free the eagle from the snare just as CO Justin Vinson was arriving on scene, a recent DNR report noted. The fox was then discovered and was eventually freed from a different snare by Vinson and wildlife team members. Vinson made contact with the suspected owner of the snares who allegedly told Vinson that he thought snare season was still open. Vinson informed the suspect that the use of cable restraints and fox season ended March 1, the report said.

KALAMAZOO, MI – A young owl that became trapped has been rescued. Officers with the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety found Thursday an owl trapped between two fences on Conant Street, near Douglas Avenue after a call from a concerned citizen, police said. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources was called in and the two agencies worked to free the rare, short-eared juvenile owl, police said. Two KDPS officers and a Michigan Department of Natural Resources officer pose for a picture with the rescued owl. (Photo provided by Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety)More from MLive:Michigan’s Best Local Eats: Burger Boss sells more than beef in Kalamazoo’s EastsideUnmasked prom was a ‘super spreader event,’ Kalamazoo superintendent saysMichigan police killings reach fastest pace in a decade amid sluggish reform

LANSING, MICH. -- With prime trail season about to unfold, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding people that now is a good time to purchase a new ORV license and trail permit. Michigan ORV licenses and trail permits give riders access to 4,000 miles of state-designated ORV trails and scramble areas, eligible county and national forest roads, state forest roads that are open to ORV use, and more, according to the DNR. So what’s the difference between an ORV license and a trail permit? An ORV license is required to ride eligible county roads, frozen surface of public waters, state forest roads and eligible national forest roads; the cost is $26.25. An additional ORV trail permit, which is $10, is required on top of the ORV license when operating on state-designated ORV trails and scramble areas.

Just think about it -- marshmallows slowly warming over a bonfire. You’re sitting in a nice camping chair and enjoying the weather. Sounds pretty great, right?

The dam, which creates the Net River Flooding area, is located south of Covington and north of Crystal Falls. A view of the washed-out area around the Net River dam and berm, resulting from a failed water control structure. The Net River dam in the Net River Flooding State Wildlife Management Area in Baraga County, Mich., partially failed this week. There are three bridges downstream of the Net River dam. “The situation at the Net River dam should pose no concern for area fish and wildlife,” Scullon said.

Spring yard cleanup season is back, along with wildfire season, which is why the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding people to check local ordinances before burning yard waste. According to the DNR, a burn permit is needed for “open burning” — which includes the burning of yard debris like brush, garden clippings and leaves — any time the ground is not snow-covered.

PORTAGE, MI -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) intends to perform a prescribed fire (or a controlled burn) in a section of the Gourdneck State Game Area, the Portage Department of Public Safety said. These prescribed fires can only be conducted when the weather (wind, humidity, temperature, and cloud cover) meets certain specifications. Based on the weather, the DNR expects to conduct this burn today beginning in the late afternoon, police said. The burn will occur in a section of land south of East Centre Avenue, and east of Angling Road and U.S. 131, the Portage Department of Public Safety said. Read more:New roundabouts coming to Kalamazoo County to slow down speedersI-94 bridge section demolished over Portage Road; final span to come down next4 roads will get extensive work in Kalamazoo County in 2022Selling cupcakes, buying real estate, mother-daughter team work to help the homeless

If you happen to find a bird nest in your yard this spring, “be a good neighbor” is a good rule of thumb. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding people that this time of year, birds including songbirds, geese and ducks are setting up their spring nests — and sometimes those nests wind up in places that may be a little inconvenient for people, including in landscaping, gardens, wreaths and flower pots.

BRETHREN, MI – An incident briefly interrupted access to one of Michigan’s most popular fishing spots on Tuesday morning. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Tippy Dam boating access site located along the Manistee River, off Dilling Road, in Brethren, was closed for about an hour and half after a vehicle was partially submerged in the river. Just before 6 a.m., an angler was backing their boat into the Tippy Dam boating access site. Due to a mechanical issue, the driver could not stop the vehicle, which then backed into the river and partially submerged. Located in Manistee County, Tippy Dam is one of the finest trout, steelhead, and salmon fishing areas in Michigan.

BROOKLYN, MI – Brooklyn’s Dam is targeted for demolition, with help from some state and federal funding. The Brooklyn Dam Removal Project has received $800,000 through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Fish Passage Program under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources also is providing a $252,000-grant toward the project.

The 12 fishery habitat grants announced Monday, April 25, will help the state and conservation nonprofits rehabilitate fish habitat through stream restoration, culvert replacements, tree planting and other measures. The work is intended to improve stream habitat by planting trees to cool water temperatures, reduce erosion and, eventually, provide woody habitat for trout. Ram Nek Ranch – Chub Creek stream restoration and connectivity (Crawford County), $203,988. Cadillac Area Land Conservancy – Stone Ledge Lake fisheries habitat restoration (Wexford County), $109,400. Mason-Griffith Founders Chapter of Trout Unlimited – East Branch of the Au Sable stream habitat restoration (Crawford County), $38,000.

The Lake Erie, Detroit River, Lake St. Clair and St. Clair River daily possession limit for walleye will remain at six fish through April 30, 2023. The possession season for bass opens statewide Saturday, May 28, except for Lake St. Clair, the St. Clair River and the Detroit River, which open Saturday, June 18. Michigan’s muskellunge possession season on all Great Lakes, inland waters, the St. Marys River, Lake St. Clair, and the St. Clair and Detroit rivers opens Saturday, June 4. The new license season began April 1, so anglers need to be sure they have purchased a new fishing license for this fishing season. The 2022 Michigan Fishing Guide and Inland Trout & Salmon Maps are available online along with a lot of other helpful fishing information.

The DNR is letting anglers know to get their fishing gear ready as several season openers are approaching.

BAY CITY, MI - A new study to track walleye in the Saginaw Bay is starting soon. The study will use a sophisticated system of receivers across the Saginaw Bay and Lake Huron. “The recovery of the Saginaw Bay walleye population is one of the great fishery management success stories of our time,” said Dave Fielder, a DNR fisheries research biologist. According to the DNR, a previous telemetry study of Saginaw Bay walleye revealed that about one-third of the fish leave Saginaw Bay while the rest remain in the bay year-round. In addition to this walleye study, a lake sturgeon telemetry study will also take place in Saginaw Bay this year, with an emphasis on learning where juvenile lake sturgeon are moving and inhabiting.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources recommends that bird lovers temporarily remove their bird feeders.

MARQUETTE COUNTY, MICH. -- Michigan’s most remote state park is expanding to include even more immaculate wild. Nearly 1,300 acres of pristine highlands wilderness in Marquette County has been gifted by the Upper Peninsula Land Conservancy to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the DNR announced today. The property includes three parcels that made up the conservancy’s Peshekee Headwaters Nature Preserve, which lies along the eastern edge of Craig Lake State Park, the most remote state park in Michigan. “This property augments the remarkable remote landscape at Craig Lake State Park,” said Doug Rich, western Upper Peninsula district supervisor for the DNR’s Parks and Recreation Division. More on Craig Lake State Park here.

Springtime may seem a great time to outside with a chainsaw and prune everything in sight, but don’t make that mistake with your oak trees. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources asks property owners to “please wait” when it comes to pruning oak trees. From April 15 to July 15, the species is at high risk for oak wilt, a serious fungal disease that can kill red oak trees within a few weeks. The disease also weakens white oaks.

Avian influenza has been confirmed at two separate duck farms in Northern Indiana, state officials said. According to the Indiana State Board of Animal Health, a commercial duck flock of about 6,000 birds in Elkhart County came back as presumptively positive for the virus. There are now eight sites in Indiana where the virus has been detected. The Indiana animal health board did not say whether the ducks would be destroyed, as was the case at other infected sites in Indiana. The avian influenza does not present an immediate public health concern and no human cases of avian influenza viruses have been detected in the U.S.

Do you have an oak tree? You could save its life by putting your chainsaw down and not pruning it right away, according to the Michigan DNR.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Conservation officers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources shut down an illegal snowmobile drag race last month. According to an official report, the incident occurred when William Kinney, a CO in DNR District 4, responded to a frozen lake in Grand Traverse County. The DNR had received a complain of an illegal race being held. The race was not permitted, and multiple snowmobile and park violations were being broken, according to the report. Grand Traverse County is located in DNR District 4 which also includes Benzie, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola and Wexford counties.

ST. JOSESPH COUNTY, MI -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says headless deer carcasses being spotted on the side of Michigan roads are likely there due to ongoing testing being done by the department.. According to WWMT-3, several reports have been made recently by concerned residents regarding decapitated deer being spotted along roadways in various Michigan cities, including in Vicksburg and Three Rivers. The DNR says the Wildlife Division of the department has been conducting testing for chronic wasting disease on deer in Michigan in order to track the disease. However, the DNR also says there is no evidence that CWD can be naturally transmitted to humans or other animals. Last August, two deer were reported in Michigan to have tested positive for the disease in Mecosta and Montcalm counties.

MEARS, MI – Off-roaders looking to enjoy Silver Lake State Park will want to have their vehicles dune ready when they arrive this summer. Specifically, a more streamlined process for dune-ready vehicles to enter the park quicker. The new process will help the DNR develop a more permanent dune-ready express lane in the future. Vehicles that aren’t dune ready will be sent to the traditional entrance queue, represented by the dotted red line above. “Please help us to make this a successful process by striving to make your vehicles as dune ready as you can,” the DNR wrote.

LANSING, MICH. -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ fuelwood permit program is set to return this week, albeit with a few changes. The permits will be available from the DNR beginning Friday, April 1, with a new online purchase option. “We’re encouraging the online option to save everybody time and energy going forward,” said Jeff Stampfly, chief of the DNR’s Forest Resources Division, in a statement. Additionally, permits may be purchased by mailing in an application to a DNR Forest Management Unit or field office. Fuelwood permits, good for 90 days after they are issued, are for use on designated state forest land in the Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will jaw tag 3,000 walleye across multiple Saginaw Bay tributary rivers.

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, MI – A total of 330 deer were harvested as part of a Michigan communities annual deer cull. Officials in Meridian Township, which is located just east of Lansing, concluded the 11th year of its deer management program earlier this year. The archery program helps control deer populations in the area and involves a volunteer archery program and deer cull conducted and managed by the Meridian Township Police Department. An annual firearm deer cull was approved in December 2020. “We are pleased with the results of the deer cull and the efforts of the Police Department,” said Police Chief Ken Plaga.

These cute baby animals should be observed from a distance – even if they appear to be abandoned, officials said. It’s not unusual to see baby animals on their own – especially birds, rabbits and fawns – and they’re rarely abandoned, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said in a news release. “This tactic helps young animals stay safer from predators because mom leaves and pulls the attention away from where they’re hidden,” Schauer said. No matter where they’re found, the DNR says to never remove animals from the wild. Learn more about what to do if you find a baby animal at Michigan.gov/Wildlife or contact the DNR Wildlife Division at 517-284-9453 or dnr-wildlife@michigan.gov.

A highly contagious bird flu (avian influenza) has been identified in Michigan’s wild bird population, according to the Department of Natural Resources.

The Monroe County Health Department reported that the Avian influenza has been confirmed in wild birds in Monroe, Macomb and St. Clair Counties.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), subtype H5N1, was identified in six Canada geese, two tundra swans, two snowy owls and a mute swan that were found dead in Macomb, Monroe and St. Clair counties. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the risk to people from avian influenza viruses to be low. This wild bird disease detection comes after the state’s first avian influenza cases in a backyard, non-commercial poultry flock in Kalamazoo County in February. The DNR and MDARD are working to limit the spread of the disease among the state’s wildlife and domestic poultry, DNR Director Dan Eichinger said. Wild birds commonly have avian influenza and sometimes spread it to domestic birds through direct or indirect transmission.

The first was detected in a non-commercial backyard flock in Kalamazoo County in February

A highly contagious bird flu (avian influenza) has been identified in Michigan’s wild bird population, according to the Department of Natural Resources.

LANSING, MICH. -- As Michigan lakes thaw in the early weeks of spring, it may be more likely for people to discover dead fish or other aquatic animals, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Winterkill is the most common type of fish kill,” said Gary Whelan, DNR Fisheries Division Research manager. “Dead fish and other aquatic life may appear fuzzy because of secondary infection by fungus, but the fungus was not the cause of death. The fish actually suffocated from a lack of dissolved oxygen from decaying plants and other dead aquatic animals under the ice.”For more information on fish kills in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/Fishing. You can report fish kills at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField.

NEWYAGO COUNTY, MI — Michigan fishery managers plan to collect 24 million walleye eggs during the Muskegon River spring spawning run. The DNR is expecting to remove sperm and eggs from about 350 out of the 40,000-50,000 walleye estimated in the river for the annual spring run. “This adult population consists of mostly stocked fish,” said Ed Pearce, DNR fisheries technician supervisor who coordinates the egg take. “The Muskegon River has the largest run of walleye in the Lake Michigan watershed south of Green Bay.”Stocking occurs in late spring or early summer at lakes and rivers throughout the Lower Peninsula. Lake Michigan and many inland lake walleye populations depend on the fingerlings from Muskegon River eggs, the DNR said.

LANSING, MICH. -- The 2022 fishing license season is set to begin in Michigan, and with it will come expanded opportunities for anglers interested in spearfishing. Starting April 1, underwater spearfishing in Michigan will expand to include the chance to harvest additional species, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. This expansion requires that anglers obtain a new underwater spearfishing license; there are also monthly effort and harvest reporting requirements. The underwater spearfishing license is complimentary, unless a DNR Sportcard is needed, and will be available only online at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses. All 2022 fishing licenses are valid from April 1, 2022 through March 31, 2023.

The City of Southfield has amended an ordinance to prohibit feeding deer.

LANSING, MICH. -- Michigan’s elk herd is healthy and growing, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “The latest estimates suggest that the elk herd remains healthy,” said Chad Stewart, DNR deer, elk and moose management specialist. Michigan owes its elk herd to reintroduction efforts that began after the state’s native elk died out in the 1800s due to unregulated hunting and deforestation. Elk are a valuable resource for Michigan’s ecosystems, while also providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hunting and wildlife viewing, the DNR said. More on Michigan elk can be found at Michigan.gov/Elk.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding Michiganders that spring means black bears soon will leave their dens and become active, creating opportunities for potential conflict as they forage for food. While black bears primarily forage on green vegetation, they will also browse bird feeders, pet foods left outdoors, and garbage cans if available, the DNR said. Simple steps to keep bears safely at a distance and prevent conflicts this spring and summer include:Remove bird feeders or replace feeders with bird baths. Bird feeders can lead to bear problems if you live in the Upper Peninsula or northern Lower Peninsula, where black bears are more prevalent. RELATED:This map lets you see sandhill cranes’ spring migration into MichiganThis boisterous bird is a true sign of Michigan spring, and it’s not a robinHow hikers, bikers can protect muddy trails this spring

CHELSEA, MI - State game lands just outside Chelsea could grow by more than 500 acres under a proposed expansion from Michigan wildlife officials. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is eyeing two for-sale properties just to the west of the Chelsea State Game Area, which currently encompasses about 803 acres in Lima Township in western Washtenaw County.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources released its weekly fishing report on Wednesday and it included some updates for people who fish in Southeast Michigan.

Using muddy trails can leave ruts, uneven tire tracks and footprints, contribute to erosion and inadvertently widen trails, the DNR said in a statement this week. If hiking, go right through the center of the trail, rather than travelling around the mud and widening the trail. If on horseback, travel with your horse through the center of the trail so trail widening doesn’t occur. The DNR offered “Muddy day? Please don’t play” as a catchy reminder to protect trails, especially this time of year.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is reminding anglers that ice shanty removal dates are quickly approaching. Ice shanties in the remaining counties of the Lower Peninsula must be removed by midnight on Tuesday, March 1. All other bodies of water in the Upper Peninsula must have ice shanties removed by midnight on Thursday, March 31. DNR officials are reminding anglers that regardless of the set removal dates, changing ice conditions could require the removal of fishing shanties before those dates. Deteriorating ice, water currents and high winds also increase the probability of pressure cracks, which can leave anglers and others stranded on ice floes or at risk of falling through the ice.

You might be a great candidate for a seasonal job at one of Michigan’s state parks or harbors. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources this week announced that it is now hiring for more than 1,300 seasonal park worker positions. Seasonal park workers spend their time in state parks, state forest campgrounds, boating access sites and harbors, where they help with registering campers, cleaning park buildings, mowing grass, maintaining trails and tending to other tasks. These seasonal jobs are often career stepping stones: Many Parks and Recreation Division employees start as seasonal park workers and eventually go on to become rangers, park supervisors, accountants, trail coordinators, or hold other DNR positions, the DNR writes. Michigan DNR now hiring for seasonal Wildlife TeamLike a ‘treasure hunt:’ See rare owls, falcons, other birds of Michigan wintertime

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Audubon Great Lakes are sharing a few tips for backyard bird feeders that will not only benefit our feathered friends, but Michigan’s deer population as well. CWD is transmitted through direct animal-to-animal contact, which is why it’s critical to discourage deer from gathering around bird feeders, the DNR says. Next, follow these tips to benefit birds while keeping Michigan’s deer safe:Use tube feeders. These feeds attract all the species that visit tube feeders, plus larger birds like cardinals, jays, grackles and red-winged blackbirds. Don’t use platform feeders or place seed directly on the ground, which can attract deer and other unwanted guests.

It all starts with determining which nearby situations or resources are attractive to coyotes. “If there’s an unwelcome coyote in the area, look for possible attractants that might make the area appealing,” said Holly Vaughn, wildlife outreach and engagement manager with the DNR. “Is there a nearby patch of woods or natural area that provides shelter? The DNR also suggests “hazing” tactics that can help maintain coyotes’ natural fear of people. If hunting is allowed in your area, coyote hunting season is open year-round statewide, with no bag limit.

SANFORD, MI - The Michigan Department of Natural Resources urged ice fishers to avoid the ice directly beneath the Sanford Dam while ongoing construction work could cause dangerous conditions, according to a news release. A construction project organized by the Four Lakes Task Force is ongoing at the dam site through June 2022, according to the release. However, the construction could destabilize the ice and change water currents and conditions. Another construction project might follow after the current one’s completion, according to the release, which could also create conditions unsafe for ice fishing. The DNR asked ice fishers to be prepared for winter weather before heading out on the ice.

On Thursday, a federal judge restored protections for gray wolves across the United States, returning them to the endangered species list.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers along with U.S. Forest Service officers, Michigan State Police and local sheriff’s office deputies to conduct “Ride Right” snowmobile safety patrols. The contacted more than 700 snowmobilers in Chippewa and Alger counties, issuing 23 tickets and 64 verbal warnings. One snowmobiler was issued two tickets in one day for running stop signs at opposite ends of Alger County. The weekend operation focused on the “Ride Right” campaign, which emphasizes the importance of riding sober at a safe speed and on the right side of the trail. “Our main focus was to ensure the safety of everyone who was out enjoying the trails by enforcing the Ride Right snowmobile safety campaign,” Hagy said.

LANSING, MICH. -- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is seeking job applicants interested in working outdoors or learning more about wildlife conservation. The DNR this week announced it is looking to fill 60 seasonal positions with its Wildlife Division, which regularly hires staff to work at DNR field offices, customer service centers and state game areas. More information about Wildlife Division seasonal positions can be found online here. See other job openings at Michigan.gov/DNRJobs; scroll to the seasonal and temporary positions section. RELATED:Ernest Hemingway’s great-granddaughter to lead Northern Michigan retreat for writersFull moon hikes, lantern-lit snowshoeing return to these Michigan state parks in FebruaryWhere to go winter river rafting in Michigan

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program, or BOW, is offering several “Beyond BOW” one-day workshops this winter at various locations in Marquette County. Sunrise Snowshoe Hike, Sugarloaf Mountain: Participants will meet at the Sugarloaf Mountain trailhead, located about 5 miles north of Marquette along Marquette County Road 550, to snowshoe from the trailhead to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Sunrise for that day is at 7:46 a.m. After the sun rises, participants will snowshoe back to the trailhead, following the same route. Evening Lighted Cross-Country Ski, Blueberry Ridge Pathway: Many people newer to skiing have never had an opportunity to ski at night, under lights. Evening Snowshoe Hike, Hogsback Mountain, Little Presque Isle: Have you always wanted to go snowshoeing at night?

PARADISE FALLS, MI – Brrrrrrrrrrr. It sure is cold throughout Michigan, and while that may have its drawbacks it also has some beautiful benefits. Michigan’s winter beauty is on full display at the Tahquamenon Fall State Park right now. Much of the Upper Falls is frozen over. It was –13 degrees there Wednesday morning, Jan. 26, when Ken Golat, of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, snapped the stunning photo above, which the park shared to Facebook.

The gray wolf was removed from the endangered list in Michigan and now officials want to know if the public thinks it should be placed back on that list.

Deer hunters might find it easier to bag a buck than to have the meat processed in some areas of Michigan.

Invasive New Zealand mudsnails have been detected in a Michigan creek, the sixth known infestation in Michigan in recent years.

The public is invited to a virtual meeting to discuss changes to walleye and northern pike regulations for Lake Gogebic.

Looking to make a few extra bucks in September? Plan a hunt -- for pine cones.

One particular lake in Livingston County is experiencing an issue with mute swans.

The state of Michigan is investigating after the sudden death of hundreds of fish in Oakland County.

Officials have requested an autopsy for a young girl who was recovered from Lake Huron in Iosco County after drowning last weekend.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has a list of invasive species in the state that residents should be aware of and report if spotted.

Officers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources are seeking information about a well known albino deer who was found dead Sunday, May 30 in Irons, an area within Lake County.

Crews from the DNR are currently battling a 425-acre fire -- a total perimeter of about 5.2 miles -- in Northern Michigan.

Crews from the DNR are currently battling a 425-acre fire -- a total perimeter of about 5.2 miles -- in Northern Michigan.

For those traveling in Michigan this Memorial Day, especially those with plans to go camping, environmental experts are urging people to leave the firewood at home.

ALPENA, Mich. – A dry winter and recent sunny skies have led to a rash of recent brush fires around the state, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources says. Since Friday, the agency has responded to at least 40 such fires in the state, said Don Klingler, DNR resource protection manager for the Lower Peninsula. A fast-moving grass fire Monday burned 86 acres in northeast Michigan's Alcona County, The Alpena News reported. Roger MacNeill, a forest fire officer at the Lincoln DNR office, said the fire jumped a drainage ditch and the Black River. Grass fires have been rampant in Michigan this spring, with about 20 burning at once on Monday, including one that burned 600 acres in Manistee, MacNeill said.

Spring officially begins this weekend, and with the return of warm weather comes more active local wildlife. Leightner said that springtime kicks off many of their habitat projects, which are designed to benefit wildlife big and small. Leightner explained that by burning certain parts of Michigan grasslands, they’re able to help promote local plant growth and control invasive species. To find out more about how you can help with wildlife conservation, watch the video above. To learn more about Michigan’s important wildlife conservation efforts, click here.

SUMPTER TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities are urging residents of Sumpter Township to avoid “outside burning of any kind” as the region is considered at high risk for wildfires Thursday. According to the Sumpter Township Police Department, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has identified the township area as being at very high risk of wildfires due to dry ground conditions. Residents are being asked to avoid any outdoor burning activities to prevent a wildland fire. Authorities say they have responded to several wildland and/or field fires in the surrounding area over the past week, and five within Sumpter Township over the last two days. Sumpter Township police say that residents whose “negligent activity leads to wildland fire and subsequent property destruction can be held liable, both criminally and civilly.”To learn more about fire safety, visit the DNR’s website right here.

LENAEWEE COUNTY, Mich. – A 28-year-old man has died after a snowmobile operator crashed into his ice shanty on Devils Lake in Lenawee County, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. DNR officials said upon arrival, they discovered a snowmobile tangled in debris from the ice shanty, and the 28-year-old from Jerome was found lying in the debris. The 33-year-old snowmobile operator from Hudson was treated for minor injuries and voluntarily submitted to a toxicology blood draw. AdAccording to DNR, speed is the No. READ: Metro Detroit road crews out in full force ahead of winter stormREAD: ‘No ice is safe ice’ -- Police issue warning after snowmobile rider killed breaking through ice on Wolverine lake

MANISTEE, Mich. – The Michigan DNR relocated a historic shelter building to keep it safe from eroding shoreline on Lake Michigan. The DNR said after months of planning, Orchard Beach State Park’s historic shelter building now sits a safe 230 feet back from the eroding Lake Michigan shoreline. “I’m proud and excited that this community and the state joined together to save this historic building,” said Doug Barry, unit manager for Orchard Beach State Park. “So many families have held events here over the years because of the unique charm of this park shelter. High water has created the need to stabilize shorelines and historic structures around Michigan, including upcoming work at nearby Big and Little Sable lighthouses.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s state parks, harbors and recreation areas are seeking entrepreneurs to run camp stores, boat rentals and other businesses as the coronavirus pandemic has spurred an increase in state park visitors. Lori Green, the concession and lease manager for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, told MLive.com that there are perks that come with operating a business within a state park or recreation area. Green said state park visitor numbers were higher this year then ever, which could be encouraging for state-park based enterprises. Most opportunities are seasonal, such as operating camp stores, bike or watercraft rentals, food trucks, and even a water park. An anomaly on the current list is the ski hill at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

CALHOUN COUNTY, Mich. – An invasive mile-a-minute weed (Persicaria perfoliata) has been found at Albion College’s Whitehouse Nature Center in Calhoun County, officials said. What is mile-a-minute weed? Mile-a-minute weed is an annual vine that can grow up to 6 inches per day, or 25 feet in 6 to 8 weeks. Mile-a-minute weed infestations have been reported in 15 states across the United States. While mine-a-minute weed can be removed by hand, seeds can persist in the soil for up to six years.

In addition to the races for office in the November election, Michigan voters should prepare to vote on a few proposals that would change the state’s constitution. Proposition 1, also known as Prop 1, will change the way Michigan buys new land and renovates state parks. Specifically, the proposition impacts how much money Michigan can hold in the trust the funds state parks, and where that money ultimately goes. The proposition on the 2020 General Election ballot has been a long time coming -- the last major change to how Michigan funds state parks occurred in the mid 1990s. It is also supported by business groups like the Michigan Oil and Gas Association and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources awarded Circle Power of Royal Oak a 5-year lease agreement to develop solar arrays on two former mine sites. “Our department is entrusted with taking the best possible care of the state’s natural resources and creating quality outdoor experiences. Circle Power is backed by Amber Infrastructure and its U.S. parent, Hunt Companies, Inc. “The potential development of two former mining sites for large-scale solar power, in my opinion, checks all the boxes,” said John A. Kinch, executive director of Michigan Energy Options. What the project does do is to drive the creation of more clean, renewable energy in Michigan, with the DNR leading by example.

HOLLY, Mich. – It took years of planning and collaboration, but the first 113 acres of the Holly Oaks ORV Park has opened. The park is in Groveland and Holly townships, near Groveland Oaks County Park and Campground on Dixie Highway. It’s considered part of the Holly Recreation Area. READ: More community news coverageIt is operated by Oakland County Parks and Recreation in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Click here to learn more or purchase tickets.

LANSING, Mich. – Deer hunters should expect changes to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources deer check stations this fall. Hunters will be required to wear masks and following social distancing guidelines at DNR deer check stations. At many check stations, hunters will be required to stay in their vehicles while their deer is checked. Hunters who want disease testing are asked to bring only deer heads to check stations by removing them ahead of time. Hours and locations of deer check stations will be available by clicking here.

SPRING LAKE, Mich. A Michigan Department of Natural Resources conversation officer rescued an elderly woman from a burning mobile home Wednesday evening in Spring Lake. According to a press release from the DNR, officer Robert Slick, who was off-duty at the time, was jogging at about 5:30 p.m. when he spotted smoke from a distance. The department is proud of Officer Slick and the gentleman who assisted him, said Gary Hagler, chief of the DNR Law Enforcement Division. A conservation officer is never truly off-duty and is trained to respond to situations like this.DNR officials said Slick stayed with the woman until medical personnel arrived and evaluated her. Slick has been with the DNR Law Enforcement Division since 2015 and patrols in Ottawa County.

DETROIT A study of more than 30 years of data on bald eagles in Michigan shows the leading causes of death for the iconic national bird are being hit by cars and lead poisoning. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan State University and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. James Sikarskie, a retired professor from Michigan State Universitys College of Veterinary Medicine, was a co-author of the study. Lead poisoning causes damage to the liver and kidneys, and the treatment to draw the toxin out, chelation, is also traumatic on them.Michigan officials said they encourage non-lead ammunition. DNR spokesman Ed Golder said its a hunter preference partly because non-lead ammunition is more expensive.

WHITE LAKE TOWNSHIP, Mich. The burnt remains of a deceased woman were discovered near a park by a citizen on Monday morning. White Lake police say a citizen located the remains of the victim around 8 a.m. in a parking area near the Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area at Maceday Lake and Cross roads. Officials say Oakland County medical examiners arrived on the scene but no cause of death has been determined as of Tuesday afternoon. Officials say there were no recent missing persons reports in the area that matched the victims description. Anyone with information is asked to contact White Lake Police Lieutenant Christopher Hild at 248-698-4404.

You can fish for free in Michigan this weekend -- June 13 and 14, 2020. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says all fishing license fees will be waived for two days. A Recreation Passport will not be required for entry into state parks and boating access sites during Free Fishing Weekend. This weekend (June 13-14) also is free ORV license and trail permit weekend in Michigan. Related: DNR: Camping in Michigan state parks, recreation areas will resume June 22

GRAND HAVEN, Mich. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced Friday that Grand Haven State Parks Channel parking lot will reopen to the public on May 22. The parking lot -- also known as Fishermans parking lot -- was closed to traffic earlier this month due to public health concerns, after large groups congregated and failed to practice social distancing. Grand Haven State Park is one of Michigans most popular outdoor destinations, and we know many people love to return here year after year. Grand Haven State Park has remained open to the public amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. You can learn more about Grand Haven State Park here.

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will launch a new license sales system Feb. 18. It will move to a “more technologically advanced system” for fishing and hunting licenses, snowmobile permits, hunting applications and off-road vehicles. The transition to the new system will begin Feb. 15 until noon Feb. 18. “We spent more than two years planning and developing a modern license sales system that offers up-to-date, convenient and cost-effective services for our customers and retail partners.”Customers are advised to purchase licenses and permits before Feb. 15. Features of the new license sales system include:A barcode scanner wand at retailer locations, which will allow license agents to speed up the sales process by quickly scanning customer driver’s licenses – including nonresidents – rather than typing in customer information.

ANN ARBOR - The city of Ann Arbor released a memo earlier this month detailing its 2020 Deer Management Program. Penned by City Administrator Howard Lazarus, it outlines plans to kill up to 150 deer in what will be the city's fifth annual cull if it is approved by City Council in a Nov. 18 vote. With 78 sterilizations of female deer completed last year, the city has nearly met its quota of 80 approved sterilizations. Aside from the sterilizations, there will be no change to the methods or long-term goals for this year's cull, Lazarus wrote. All About Ann Arbor is powered by ClickOnDetroit/WDIV.

Several bee species are already suffering population declines in Michigan. (WDIV)MICHIGAN - Officials in southern Michigan are warning that pesticides targeting a deadly mosquito-borne virus could kill other insects, including rare and beneficial species. The Detroit Free Press reports that the spraying to quell the alarming rise of Eastern equine encephalitis disease threatens essential pollinators such as bumblebees and the endangered Mitchell's satyr butterfly. Department spokesman John Pepin says at-risk insects living in the sprayed areas include the Mitchell's satyr, the Silphium borer moth and Persius duskywing butterfly. Several bee species are already suffering population declines in Michigan.

HIAWATHA NATIONAL FOREST, Mich. - Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers -- with Michigan State Police troopers and Sault Tribe Law Enforcement -- located two missing Manistique hikers Thursday in Hiawatha National Forest. "There's not a lot of law enforcement in this remote area," said Chief Gary Hagler, DNR Law Enforcement Division. The missing hikers were both men in their 60s. The DNR was assisted with MSP K-9 units and Sault Tribe Law Enforcement officers. GPS data provided by cellphone use proved to be inaccurate and officers used the missing men's wives to help locate the hikers.

DELTA COUNTY, Mich. - Another cougar sighting has been confirmed by the Michigan DNR, the 40th sighting in the state since 2008. Biologists from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' cougar team confirmed this week the 40th cougar report in Michigan since 2008. Norton visited the area and, with the help of members of the cougar team, substantiated the report. From 2017: DNR confirms first ever cougar sighting in Michigan's Lower PeninsulaThe confirmation comes from an area about 170 miles from where a cougar trail camera image was snapped July 7 in Gogebic County and verified by the DNR earlier this month. From 2018: Cougar captured on DNR camera in Michigan's Upper PeninsulaSince 2008, the DNR has now confirmed 40 cougar reports, with all but one of those occurring in the Upper Peninsula.

DETROIT - A reopening celebration is scheduled at the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory on Detroits Belle Isle island park. The Belle Isle Conservancy and Michigan Department of Natural Resources say the event is Thursday and repairs made to the conservatory are part of the islands long-term restoration plans. Original trusses from 1904 have been replaced with galvanized steel. DNR Parks and Recreation funds made up $1.5 million of the $2.5 million project. The other $1 million came from a grant from a Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation grant.

The Michigan DNR confirmed a report of a cougar in Northern Michigan. A mountain lion image caught on a landowners trail camera in Gogebic County has been confirmed as the states 39th cougar report since 2008. From 2017: DNR confirms first ever cougar sighting in Michigan's Lower PeninsulaThe DNR team visited the location on Thursday and the image was verified. Since 2008, the DNR says they have confirmed 39 cougar reports with all but one of those occurring in the Upper Peninsula. From 2018: Cougar captured on DNR camera in Michigan's Upper PeninsulaWith an average of three confirmed cougar reports in each of the past 12 years, these animals remain rare in the Upper Peninsula, Norton said.