Legislature Passes SB 52, Failure to Report Deer Harvest Decriminalized

Justin Tomei • July 10, 2023

The Michigan House passed the decriminalization of failure to report a deer harvest on a 61-47 vote at the end of June, and the bill was signed on July 11 by Governor Whitmer.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) worked with Sen. Cherry and his office toward the passage of the bill. MUCC and other stakeholders testified in support of the legislation during committee meetings in both chambers.

Protecting Michigan’s hunting heritage was the driving factor for Sen. Cherry to push this legislation.

“As an avid hunter and former DNR employee, I understand the significance of gathering deer harvest data to make informed decisions about our deer herds’ management. Yet, it was clear to me that the penalties associated with non-reporting were disproportionate to the offense, particularly considering the absence of direct harm to the resource,” said Sen. Cherry. “It’s important that Michigan continue to preserve our hunting heritage, and I’m happy that SB 52 will ensure that our hunters will not be subject to undue penalties.”

By statute, any order passed by the Natural Resources Commissioner is automatically a misdemeanor. It is then the responsibility of the legislature to tweak the penalties for certain offenses, said Justin Tomei, MUCC policy assistant.

“This issue did not rise to the level of a misdemeanor, and all the things that go with that classification of crime,” Tomei said. “This was an easy way for stakeholders, the DNR, and the legislature to come together and fix it before it became an unnecessary burden on Michigan hunters.”

Included in MUCC’s legislative priorities , harvest reporting decriminalization was among the first of many successes for MUCC and conservationists during this legislative session.

Stay in touch with all of MUCC’s legislative calls to action HERE .

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 .

The post Legislature Passes SB 52, Failure to Report Deer Harvest Decriminalized appeared first on Michigan United Conservation Clubs.

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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.