Action Alert: Conservation Officer funding at risk, contact your elected officials now

lschultz • August 19, 2019

The budget deadline is approaching fast; now is the time for sportsmen and sportswomen like you to express which items are most important in the coming budget. The budget deadline is September 30, and the importance of budget items such as chronic wasting disease funding, PFAs, invasive species and conservation officers need to be stressed to your elected officials. 

Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division

A cut of $1.1 million to the DNR Law Enforcement Division in the 2020 fiscal year budget has been proposed by the House. This budget cut would result in fewer conservation officers who help to enforce the scientific management of our fish and wildlife. While your hunting and angling license dollars go towards supporting game and fish in our state, the law enforcement division of the DNR relies on tax dollars due to the vast duties that a conservation officer has. Conservation officers are often the first responders to a scene in rural areas and have been awarded numerous life-saving awards.

Chronic Wasting Disease Funding

Currently, the proposed budget increases the wildlife management appropriation by $2.3 million General Fund (GF) for chronic wasting disease research. Out of the $2.3 million being funded, $2 million would be one-time funding, and $300,000 would be ongoing funding.

PFAs

There is $120 million general fund to be allocated to EGLE for the 2019-2020 fiscal year in the proposed budget to address water quality issues including perfluorooctanoic acids (PFAs) .

Invasive Species Program

For the last several years, $5.1 million has been in the budget to address emerging issues of invasive species. These funds will be used to prevent, detect, eradicate and control aquatic and terrestrial invasive species.

Show YOUR support for chronic wasting disease, invasive species and PFA’s funding. Express your concern for the proposed cut to the Law Enforcement Division and ask that the $1.1 million be reinstated.

Recent Posts

By Olivia Triltsch July 10, 2025
MUCC’s On the Ground program is returning to the Shiawassee River State Game Area to aid in the removal of a persistent aquatic invasive species, European frog-bit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae). Volunteers are needed on Saturday, July 26th, from 9 AM – 12 PM . For more details and to register, click HERE .
By Emily VanderWall July 8, 2025
July 2025 NRC Preview
By Olivia Triltsch July 3, 2025
The United States is not shy about using big, beautiful fireworks in celebration of many occasions. July 4th is a day of celebration for many within the country, celebrating the country’s independence from Great Britain in 1776. Fireworks and barbecues are the most common modes of celebration on this day in recognition of the historic significance of the day. While these grand displays are something many look forward to each year, it is important to consider the impacts these explosions have on the surrounding area, including pets and wildlife.
More Posts