NRC to act on proposed urine-based lure ban at June meeting

lschultz • June 4, 2021

Commissioners are set to act on a proposed ban of urine-based lures as another round of deer regulations comes in front of the Natural Resources Commission (NRC) this month for action.

It is unclear what the commission’s flavor might be on the proposed ban, but during last month’s public testimony, Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) asked that the commission consider a compromise rather than an all-out ban.

MUCC believes a compromise benefits all interests and still allows hunters to keep a tool in their toolbox, said Ian FitzGerald, MUCC policy coordinator. 

“We were encouraged to see the engagement and interest from commissioners to view all sides of this proposed ban,” FitzGerald said. “We’re hopeful commissioners will consider alternatives to the ban, which would provide little to no risk to our herd while maximizing recreational opportunity.”

The proposed deer hunting regulations include two administrative changes relating to muzzleloader hunting and would ban deer-urine-based lures and attractants. 

Given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the NRC will meet virtually using an online platform to consider a few items of business . To call in without video, use this phone number: 1 (415) 655-0060, Access Code: 873-145-646

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) will be providing information to the NRC, including a state land strategy, tracking wounded deer with dogs and the 2020 Deer Harvest survey report.

A 2019 member-passed resolution called on MUCC to advocate for tracking deer with dogs off lead, as well as allowing a tracker to dispatch a wounded deer in very specific circumstances. This resolution passed with at least a two-thirds majority at the organization’s convention. 

New Business

Members of the NRC will take action on WCO No. 5 of 2021 relating to deer regulations. This order, as proposed, would align the dates of muzzleloader seasons statewide, correct an administrative error that excluded Muskegon County from muzzleloader hunting regulations and ban the possession or use of deer-urine-based lures or attractants.

Urine-based lures and attractants “that contain or claim to contain cervid urine or other bodily fluids originating from deer” would not be allowed, as they may facilitate the spread of chronic wasting disease. However, synthetic lures and attractants will still be permitted. This change comes after the Archery Trade Association has since moved its Deer Protection Program (DPP) to the Responsible Hunting Scent Association (RHSA).

There will be a potential amendment from Commissioner Lashbrook on the proposed deer urine ban, according to the NRC meeting agenda. MUCC has reached out for more information to the commissioners for more information. 

Director Eichinger will also consider eight land transactions, which may be viewed here . These consist of four small sales, two exchanges and two acquisitions. 

Old Business

Eichinger will potentially take action on a director’s order that would allow shooting preserves to release pheasant, quail and partridge year-round. 

Recent Posts

By Justin Tomei June 30, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MUCC Submits Public Comment in Support of Line 5 Tunnel Project Lansing, MI — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC), the nation’s largest statewide conservation organization, has submitted formal public comments urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to approve the Enbridge Line 5 Tunnel Project. In a letter submitted today, MUCC emphasized the need to move this critical infrastructure forward to protect the Great Lakes while maintaining safe, reliable energy transportation. “MUCC supports the tunnel project as the best available alternative to reduce the risk of an environmental disaster in the Straits of Mackinac while continuing to deliver essential energy products to Michigan families and industries,” said Amy Trotter, CEO of MUCC. “We believe the tunnel project strikes a balance between protecting the environment and maintaining energy security.” MUCC’s position is backed by a formal resolution passed by its membership, which includes thousands of hunters, anglers, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts across Michigan. The resolution supports the tunnel as a long-term solution that replaces the aging and exposed pipeline segment currently crossing the Straits, offering greater environmental safeguards through secondary containment. The organization cited the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which acknowledges the tunnel’s benefits, including reduced spill risk and a controlled, buried environment for transporting light crude oil and natural gas liquids. MUCC also rejected the "no action alternative," which would allow the existing line to remain in operation without any new protective infrastructure. “Other alternatives, like transporting fuel by truck or rail, are inefficient and carry greater environmental and safety risks,” Trotter added. “Allowing the current line to operate exposed on the lakebed indefinitely is simply not acceptable.” MUCC’s comment stresses that the organization is not weighing in on the type of energy transported, but rather on the environmental risks and safety benefits of the tunnel itself. Originally approved by the Michigan legislature and governor in 2018, the Great Lakes Tunnel Project represents a once-in-a-generation investment in infrastructure and environmental protection. MUCC urges the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to issue the necessary permits and move forward with construction without further delay. For Media Contact: Justin Tomei jtomei@mucc.org 517-346-6488 #####
By Olivia Triltsch June 26, 2025
Since its inception, MUCC has made great strides in the conservation of natural resources through advocacy, habitat, youth education, and communications.
By Katelyn Helsel June 25, 2025
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, MUCC’s On the Ground program partnered with the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute (PCCI) for a native plug planting day in Barry County. Located on 850 acres, the institute offers both environmental education opportunities and serves as a biological field station for conducting research. Many diverse native communities from wetlands to prairies are present at PCCI, and many rare or threatened species in Michigan like the eastern box turtle call the institute home. 
More Posts