MUCC-led commercial guiding legislation heads to the governor’s desk

Justin Tomei • November 9, 2023

The Michigan Senate concurred on stakeholder-led commercial guiding legislation today, after passage in the house late last night. 

The legislation now heads to Gov. Whitmer’s desk. 

Commercial guiding in Michigan is woefully unregulated – nothing currently exists in statute to prevent serial poachers from posing as legitimate guides. 

The bipartisan package, sponsored by Senators John Cherry (D-Flint), Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo), and Kevin Daley (R-Lum), aims to address that and provide crucial biological data for Michigan’s world-class biologists. 

During the 2021-2022 legislative session, MUCC authored a detailed breakdown of similar legislation . MUCC has joined many affiliates, notably the Michigan Hunting Dog Federation and Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen’s Association, and existing guides in pushing for and refining this proposal over many years. 

This legislation is necessary to protect Michigan’s natural resources from bad actors, said MUCC Chief Executive Officer Amy Trotter.

“The need for this legislation has been on MUCC’s radar since the late 1990s,” Trotter said, “We must weed out serial poachers posing as legitimate guides. This legislation checks all the boxes, ensures the integrity of Michigan’s commercial guiding industry, and collects important information to manage our natural resources scientifically.”

The legislative package will set a low barrier to entry for an individual looking to participate as a guide. These requirements include a $150 fee for a three-year license, no violations of certain game laws within the last three years, no felonies and the guide must hold a base license or fishing license.  There are also common sense exemptions as to who would need a license such as hunting on private land, friends voluntarily sharing expenses, or a non-profit engaging in a recruitment event. 

Conservationists have been waiting for this, said Amy Trotter, MUCC chief executive officer.

“2023 is the year we finally cross the finish line. We are capping off more than a decade of work that spans multiple legislative sessions and gubernatorial administrations,” Trotter said. “The legislation has always enjoyed broad stakeholder consensus and bipartisan support, with all sides clearly understanding the need for this legislation.” 

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

Mast-Producing Trees 101

By Katelyn Helsel • April 16, 2025
You might’ve heard the term “mast-producing” in the conservation world, but what exactly does it mean? Mast-producing is mostly used to describe a type of tree or shrub. Generally, mast-producing trees and shrubs are more desirable to plant when attempting to restore wildlife habitat on a larger scale, or even when trying to attract wildlife like songbirds into urban areas. 

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.

April 2025 NRC Recap

By Justin Tomei • April 10, 2025
NRC Votes to Table Partially Closed Coyote Season
More Posts