January NRC: No commission orders up for consideration, several land transactions likely

lschultz • January 5, 2022

The Natural Resources Commission (NRC) will kick off 2022 with a light agenda and no commission orders up for consideration.

Commissioners will meet at the MSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 13. All NRC meetings are open to the public, and masks are required for all individuals entering MSU facilities.

At the December meeting , commissioners passed a pair of fisheries orders regarding walleye and steelhead — Fisheries Order 200.22 and 206.22. 

FO 200.22, as amended by commissioner Dave Nyberg , lowers the steelhead bag limit from three to one on select Michigan streams from March 15 through May 15. FO 206.22, as amended by commissioner Dave Coazad , opens up year-round fishing for walleye on the lower Saginaw River from Center Road down to the mouth.

The Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) Fisheries Committee sent letters of concern regarding both amendments; however, the organization has no formal policy on either matter.

MUCC has heard concerns regarding passage of the recent fisheries orders, specifically the steelhead order, in recent weeks, said Nick Green, MUCC public information officer.

“MUCC feels strongly that communicating and breaking down regulation changes and the science behind those changes is the responsibility of all of us — stakeholders, conservationists, agencies, public bodies — in the conservation arena,” Green said. “Our hope is that the commission and department will work diligently to continue to communicate the reasons and science behind this regulation as we near the season.”

While there are no NRC orders up for discussion, there will be several updates related to wildlife, roads and trails from the DNR director. 

Director’s Report

Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director Dan Eichinger’s report will feature several presentations:

  • DNR Law Enforcement Chief Gary Haggler will present the American Legion Award to conservation officer Jeff Ginn.
  • DNR Wildlife Division Chief Jared Duquette will brief the commission on the division’s 2022 schedule and what orders will be coming in front of commissioners.
  • Mark Monroe, from DNR Forest Resources Division, will provide a forest road inventory update. The director will consider an order regarding the matter.
  • DNR Deer and Elk Specialist Chad Stewart will provide a report from the 2021 elk hunting season.

Director’s Orders and Land Transactions

Of note, the director will consider the department’s acquisition of a 102.605-mile recreational trail easement in Baraga and Marquette counties for snowmobilers. In total, the purchase would cost about $1.8 million and would be funded through the Michigan Permanent Snowmobile Easement Fund.

Acquisition of this easement falls in line with why the easement fund was created, and MUCC supports this acquisition.

The rest of the orders and land transactions up for the director’s consideration can be found on the agenda.

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: