June 2023 NRC Recap

Justin Tomei • June 8, 2023

The commission set deer regulations for the 2023-2025 seasons at the June NRC meeting with public comment and amendments taking up much of the meeting.

At the May Natural Resources Commission (NRC) meeting , Wildlife Conservation Order #7 of 2023 was up for information. The order regulates white-tailed deer hunting in Michigan and has been an ongoing order in front of the commission each year.

In total, nine commissioner amendments were offered to the proposed deer regulations. The meeting took place today at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon. More than 20 members of the public provided testimony.

Commissioners passed WCO #7 with amendments 6 and 7 on a 5-1 vote. Votes on each individual amendment are below:

Commissioners made it clear that this is not the end of discussions involving broad deer regulations, with a commitment to continue the discussion off the regulatory cycle. 

Commissioners also acted on Wildlife Conservation Order #5 of 2023 , after adopting a substitute order from the May meeting and Commissioner Dave Anthony’s amendment

The order now includes language allowing for off-lead tracking without the use of GPS, removes the concealed pistol license requirement and removes the prohibition of dogs barking on public land. 

The new language requires trackers to receive a biannual permit from the DNR to meet the qualifications to track off-lead. The tracker also is required to be able to demonstrate knowledge of the dogs location and some form of control of the dog, which includes the use of voice commands.

MUCC supports the use of off-lead tracking by qualified trackers. While this order is a step in the right direction per our grassroots policy, we would support a training requirement for dog and tracker and the CPL requirement. 

For the director this month was the S tate Land Review Recommendations for group seven , which includes: Cheboygan, Crawford, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson, Kalkaska, Missaukee, Muskegon, Osceola, Otsego, and Ottawa counties. 

There were four land transactions on the agenda for acting DNR Director Shannon Lott. MUCC reviews all transactions exceeding 80 acres, of which there are two. Land Transaction Case #20230025 is an acquisition of 140 acres of private land. Land Transaction Case #20230062 is a gift of 80 acres of private land. 

The director also had for action a May 2, 2023 Oil and Gas Lease Auction Results .

Up for information for the director was a trio of land use orders. Land Use Order of the Director #2 of 2023 prohibits target shooting at the Cornish State Game Area, Dr. Gordon Guyer Augusta Creek State Wildlife Area, and Three Rivers State Game Area. 

Land Use Order of the Director #3 of 2023 proposes a series of changes to parks and recreation division lands.

The Board of Geographic Names voted to replace a number of offensive site names with new names identified by the board. The names can be found in Orders 2.105(aa), 2.106(w), 2.108(v) and 5.19(t)(v).

Land Use Order of the Director #4 of 2023 makes the Belle Isle alcohol prohibition consistent with other Parks and Recreation Division facilities. 

Prior to the committee of the whole Dr. Seth Herbst from DNR Fisheries Division gave a presentation on upcoming fisheries orders . These orders are set to be introduced in August and September

The committee of the whole saw a presentation from DNR Deer and Elk Specialist Chad Stewart on moose survey results .

The next meeting is Thursday, July 13, at Lansing Community College West. 

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

 

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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 .
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