April NRC Recap: Deer tracking with dogs debated , duck and goose seasons passed

Justin Tomei • April 14, 2023

A packed April meeting yielded little action for commissioners at their monthly Natural Resources Commission (NRC) meeting .

Wildlife Conservation Order #5 of 2023 was tabled by commissioners until the May meeting with more questions on the best approach to allow off-lead dog tracking. Conversations with the department, NRC, and stakeholders are ongoing regarding the proposed language requiring GPS collars for tracking dogs. MUCC testified in favor of off-lead dog-tracking without the GPS requirement at the March meeting .  

MUCC’s members weighed heavily and ultimately passed a resolution supporting off-lead tracking at the 2023 MUCC Annual Convention, said Justin Tomei, MUCC policy assistant.

“Our membership continues to support the use of qualified off-lead tracking dogs without requiring a GPS collar for the purposes of tracking legally harvested big game,” Tomei said. “We have concerns about requiring dogs to wear GPS and if the requirement is equitable.”

The commission unanimously approved Wildlife Conservation Order #4 of 2023 , which included proposed hunting seasons for duck and goose.

The commission had no new items up for information, and the director had up for information Wildlife Conservation Order #6 of 2023 . If signed at the May meeting, it would change the definition of damage required for nuisance removal and expand the roster of nuisance animals . It would also allow private landowners to nuisance animals under certain conditions. 

A stuffed director’s report was kicked off with recognition of former Commissioner Keith Creagh, whose term expired at the end of 2022. 

The Pure Michigan Hunt winners were recognized. MUCC is a sponsor of the Pure Michigan Hunt and provided a prize package to the winners.

Erik Eklund, Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Finance and Operations Division chief gave a presentation on the Governor’s budget proposal .

Incoming Fisheries Division Chief Randy Claramunt presented the Fisheries Strategic Plan and the department’s intention to move to a 10-year plan system.

Brian Frawley of DNR Wildlife Division gave a preliminary report on the state’s 2022 deer harvest , including data from the traditional mail survey as well as the new mandatory harvest reporting system.  

Dr. Megan Moriarty, Emily Sewell of Wildlife Division and Mike VanderKlok of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development updated commissioners on bovine tuberculosis surveillance.

The NRC Wildlife Committee preceded the committee of the whole, where DNR Deer and Elk Specialist Chad Stewart gave a high-level presentation of deer regulation proposals coming to the May meeting. Commissioners were also updated on CWD monitoring and surveillance by DNR Executive Divisions Amy Derosier, and Wildlife Division Melinda Cosgrove. 

The May meeting will be held at Lansing Community College on Thursday, May 11.

To ensure our natural resources remain protected and managed thoughtfully and our outdoor heritage defended, join Michigan United Conservation Clubs today: http://bit.ly/JoinMUCC .   

Recent Posts

March 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • March 13, 2025
March 2025 NRC Recap

Leaping into World Frog Day: Blanchard's Cricket Frog

By Olivia Triltsch • March 13, 2025
Blanchard’s cricket frog plays both roles of predator and prey within the ecosystem, influencing other species populations from both sides.

MUCC Celebrates Conservation Leaders at 2025 Annual Awards Banquet

By Tyler Mehigh • March 11, 2025
Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) proudly honored outstanding individuals and organizations for their dedication to preserving Michigan’s natural resources at the 2025 Conservation Awards Banquet. The annual event recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and service to conservation. Ron Olson – 50 Years of Service to Conservation Award With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Ron Olson has made a lasting impact on Michigan’s parks and outdoor recreation. As Chief of the Parks and Recreation Division for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Olson expanded the state park system, enhanced trail programs, and secured significant funding for infrastructure improvements. His leadership has shaped the future of Michigan’s outdoor spaces for generations to come. Ron Burris – President’s Award A dedicated leader within MUCC, Ron Burris played a pivotal role in restructuring the organization’s governance, ensuring a more effective policy and executive board structure. His efforts in promoting conservation education, community engagement, and safety initiatives—such as increasing AED availability in clubs—have strengthened MUCC’s impact across Michigan. Senator Sam Singh & Representative Graham Filler – Conservation Legislators of the Year Recognized for their bipartisan leadership in securing $1.9 million in funding for the Elsie Dam removal, Senator Singh and Representative Filler have demonstrated a commitment to conservation and ecological restoration. Their advocacy ensures the protection of Michigan’s waterways, fish habitats, and public safety. Grand Valley Cap N Ballers – Affiliate of the Year With a long-standing tradition of promoting historical shooting sports and conservation, Grand Valley Cap N Ballers (GVCNB) has been a key supporter of MUCC’s mission. Hosting major regional events and fundraisers, GVCNB has played a crucial role in supporting MUCC’s conservation efforts while preserving Michigan’s outdoor heritage. Mike Avery – Conservation Communicator of the Year A leading voice in outdoor media, Mike Avery has dedicated his career to educating and inspiring Michigan’s outdoor enthusiasts through his popular radio show and podcast, Mike Avery’s Outdoor Magazine. By spotlighting conservation leaders and critical environmental issues, Avery has significantly contributed to public awareness and advocacy for Michigan’s natural resources. MUCC extends its heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients for their outstanding contributions to conservation. Their dedication ensures that Michigan’s natural heritage remains protected for future generations. For more information on MUCC’s conservation efforts, visit mucc.org .
More Posts
Share by: