Education
The Importance of Fire in Michigan
Historical Impacts Historically, Michigan’s vast forests and grasslands have evolved to be dependent on fire over time. Certain species, including the native Jack Pine, have adapted to become fire-dependent for reproduction. Although some stakeholders may support preferences for wildlife, it is important to understand the habitats that native wildlife depend on as well. Fellow bird…
Read MoreMichigan’s Wetland Wonders
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees a series of Managed Waterfowl Hunting Areas (MWHAs) throughout the state dedicated to providing residents with access to the best waterfowl hunting around. These areas, nicknamed “Wetland Wonders”, contain high-quality nesting and migration habitat for waterfowl and other wetland species. The DNR manages these MWHAs using a…
Read MoreAquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Awareness Week
This week, we celebrate one of the most important holidays in the history of our country. Fireworks will fill the skies, drinks will be ice cold, and backyard grills will be fired up as people celebrate the red, white, and blue. However, this week also marks an important week for invasive species. June 30 –…
Read MoreWild Goose Chase: MUCC’s Habitat Program Coordinator Bands Geese with Michigan DNR
A typical Monday for MUCC’s Habitat Program Coordinator consists of completing paperwork from the previous weekend’s event and responding to emails. This Monday looked a little different. Instead of catching up on emails, I went on a wild goose chase to catch Canada geese around the Lansing area. As an early career biologist, I am…
Read MoreHabitat Tip: Don’t Move Firewood
Now that it’s officially summertime and warmer weather is upon us, camping season in Michigan is in full swing! Camping is a very popular pastime for all Michiganders, and for good reason. From the thick forests and tall waterfalls of the Upper Peninsula to the setting sun on Lake Michigan after a long day on…
Read MoreMUCC and partners help families get fishing this summer
With more than 1 million anglers buying fishing licenses in Michigan each year, fishing is a time honored summer tradition. The best part about traditions is that they happen year after year. With this in mind, MUCC in partnership with the Discovery Center and Pier of Traverse City, Northwest Michigan Fishing Club and the Inland…
Read MoreThe Michigan Bald Eagle Observation Survey
Many people who spend time in Michigan’s outdoors come across a bald eagle nest or see an eagle fly over. Some might even go back to that location regularly to check on the success of the eagle nest. Bald eagles are an important bird species and are a symbol of our nation. The recovery of…
Read MoreThe Importance of Michigan’s Rivers
According to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, Michigan is home to over 300 named rivers which extend 51,438 miles across the state. Rivers offer many important benefits such as habitat for fish and wildlife, transportation, and recreational opportunities for the general public. Things like pollution can damage a river, causing harm not just…
Read MoreHow Does a Solar Eclipse Affect the Environment?
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a rare total solar eclipse is set to cross the entire North American continent. The eclipse will begin over the South Pacific Ocean, passing through the United States, Mexico, and Canada. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the eclipse will pass over Mexico starting at 11:07 AM…
Read MoreHow to Become a Michigan Recreational Safety Instructor
Background and Problem Over the last several years, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been developing a new process to become a certified Michigan Recreational Safety Instructor. This process was rolled out at the beginning of 2024 and is only necessary for new instructors for all programs (Bow Hunter Education, Trapper Education, Snowmobile…
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