On the Ground: Volunteers Help Increase Hunting Opportunity in the Gladwin State Game Area

Kristina Kennedy • March 10, 2022

Volunteers help clear brush and downed trees from designated shooting lanes at the March 5th OTG project in Gladwin SGA.

Last Saturday, March 5, 2022, a group of 6 volunteers joined MUCC’s On the Ground program (OTG) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) in a morning of shooting lane clearing for a new accessible hunting blind located in the Gladwin State Game Area. The ground blind with accessible features was donated by Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors (MiOFO) and is maintained by the MDNR. MiOFO’s mission is to provide improved outdoor recreation opportunities for wounded veterans and individuals with health challenges. Their ultimate goal is to coordinate a support network that facilitates recovery through connecting with nature. To learn more about hunting locations with accessible features and special hunting opportunities on state land, click here.

A volunteer clearing tree branches from shooting lanes, giving the accessible hunting blind good views of passing game trails.

The accessible blind is located less than ¼ mile from the State Game Area parking lot off South Rogers Avenue. The blind has viewpoints of multiple game trails and can easily be accessed by track chairs that can be rented for free from the MDNR. These off-road, electronic chairs can handle trails, snow, sand and up to 8 inches of water. To learn more about how to rent track chairs for free through the MDNR, click here.

We were also joined by a camera crew from Outdoor Channel’s Wardens , a TV show that features the daily adventures of MDNR’s conservation officers, statewide wildlife research and habitat work, hunting, fishing, and much more of what Michigan’s natural resources have to offer. Volunteers had the opportunity to participate in interviews regarding their experience with MUCC’s OTG program and the importance of the work they were doing to help expand hunting opportunity on public land. The episode that features the On the Ground program should air next year. For information on how to watch Wardens , click here.

To learn more about MUCC’s award-winning On the Ground program and to register to volunteer at an event near you, please visit  mucc.org/on-the-ground. Our next event will involve building brush piles to improve small game habitat in the Gourdneck State Game Area in Kalamazoo County on Saturday, March 26, 2022 from 9am-2pm. This event will be hosted in partnership with the Kalamazoo Conservation District and the MDNR. To learn more about  this event, please visit the registration webpage here.

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: