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

Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies, Oh My!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 17, 2025
In addition to their impact on water quality, these three orders of insects are an important part of the diet of game fish, making anglers, especially fly fishermen, interested in the conservation of these small animals.

Mast-Producing Trees 101

By Katelyn Helsel • April 16, 2025
You might’ve heard the term “mast-producing” in the conservation world, but what exactly does it mean? Mast-producing is mostly used to describe a type of tree or shrub. Generally, mast-producing trees and shrubs are more desirable to plant when attempting to restore wildlife habitat on a larger scale, or even when trying to attract wildlife like songbirds into urban areas. 

MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 15, 2025
MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed! Rochester Hills, MI — April 15, 2025 — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) is proud to announce its 250th On the Ground (OTG) habitat improvement project: a community clean-up of the Clinton River at Yates Park in Rochester Hills. The event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM . In partnership with Metro-West Steelheaders and the Clinton River Watershed Council, this initiative aims to enhance fish and wildlife habitats by removing trash from the river and surrounding riparian zones. The project not only benefits local ecosystems but also fosters a cleaner, healthier community and environment. Event Details: Location: Yates Park, 1990 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM What to Bring: Work gloves (if available), appropriate outdoor attire, and a reusable water bottle. MUCC will provide waders, trash grabbers, trash bags, lunch, and a volunteer appreciation gift. This milestone event underscores MUCC's commitment to conservation and community engagement. "Reaching our 250th project is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and partners," said Olivia Triltsch, MUCC's Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator. "We invite everyone to join us in making a tangible impact on our natural resources." Registration:  Interested volunteers should register by Friday, April 18, at 2:00 PM. To expedite check-in, please complete the digital volunteer waiver individually for each participant. Individuals under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver. For late registrations or cancellations, contact Olivia Triltsch at otriltsch@mucc.org. MUCC is always excited to work alongside the Clinton River Watershed Council. Their continued efforts to protect, enhance, and promote the Clinton River and its watershed are deeply valued. Together, we make a greater impact on ensuring clean, healthy waterways and thriving wildlife habitats for generations to come.
More Posts