Michigan’s hunting and fishing regulator is considering a policy change that would limit hunters to one buck per season.
(Ed. Note: This story was originally published by Bridge Michigan, a nonprofit and nonpartisan news organization. Visit the newsroom online: bridgemi.com.)
By Laura Herberg
Bridge Michigan
Hunters are divided over a proposed “one buck rule” that some hope would help balance the buck-to-doe ratio, curb overpopulation in the Lower Peninsula and make deer hunting better for future generations by leaving more prize bucks on the table.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission, the state’s hunting and fishing regulator, is considering a policy that would mean no hunter in the state could kill more than one antlered deer. In the Lower Peninsula, hunters would need a special license to kill any bucks.
Currently, hunters in Michigan can kill two antlered deer per season, except on Drummond Island, where they are already limited to one.
The commission is expected to vote on a version of the one buck rule recommended by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources — and other proposed deer regulations — on May 13. If passed as currently written, the one buck rule would go into effect in 2027.
It’s an idea that some think could be a game-changer for deer hunting in the state. Others think it will have little impact except limiting hunters’ options.
“We have a buck-centric culture in Michigan. Everybody wants their buck. And we have an aversion, a flat-out refusal, to shoot does by many people. That needs to change,” said hunter Dan Ulfig. “It’s obvious that the one buck rule will improve antlerless harvest.”
Derek Rauch, however, said he agreed the DNR needs to find a way to get hunters to kill more antlerless deer, balance the herd’s sex ratio and increase hunter satisfaction, but he didn’t think it was clear the one buck rule would do the trick.
“A lot of hunters are going to see this as paying more for less flexibility, and all for a rule the state itself says will only have modest immediate effects,” he said.
The DNR refers to bucks as an antlered deer, which is any deer with an antler of 3 inches or more in length.
In the Lower Peninsula, if hunters buy a single deer license, it would default to being for an antlerless deer. If a hunter wanted to kill an antlered deer, they’d need to buy a combination license — raising the price from $20 to $40 for residents — and then only one of those deer could be antlered.
According to the DNR’s deer specialist, Brent Rudolph, a version of the one buck rule came out of the department’s deer advisory teams, as well as a request from Natural Resources Commissioner John Walters, who asked the department to write a recommendation to address the state’s buck-to-doe ratio.
The DNR does not know the buck-to-doe ratio in the state, but has a sense of the ratio from the deer hunters kill. In a given year, around 20% of hunters harvest an antlerless deer.
Over the past decade, 4% to 7% of killed deer — or 32,000 per year — were a second antlered deer killed by one hunter, the DNR said.
“Restricting hunters to a single buck doesn’t, according to our statistics, protect a whole lot of additional deer. There’s not a lot of hunters that take two bucks,” Rudolph said. “But it limits the options that folks have, and hopefully creates more of a reinforcement for antlerless harvest as an important part of the take.”
Hunters are divided on the issue. The DNR has never asked them about its specific recommendation, but, in 2020, a DNR survey found slightly less than half of hunters — 48% — would have supported limiting the combination license to allow for only one buck to be killed.
At the Natural Resources Commission meeting April 8, hunters spanning generations packed the room — many without seats — to have their voices heard on whether to limit hunters to killing one buck per season.
During a public comment period that lasted nearly four hours and included some who drove eight hours from the Upper Peninsula to get there, applause was louder for comments in support of the one buck rule.
“You don’t get a turnout like this when things are working,” said Josh Arbogast, a supporter of the one buck rule. “Young hunters who have been absent are here today because they still believe that this can change.”
By Laura Herberg
Bridge Michigan
Hunters are divided over a proposed “one buck rule” that some hope would help balance the buck-to-doe ratio, curb overpopulation in the Lower Peninsula and make deer hunting better for future generations by leaving more prize bucks on the table.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission, the state’s hunting and fishing regulator, is considering a policy that would mean no hunter in the state could kill more than one antlered deer. In the Lower Peninsula, hunters would need a special license to kill any bucks.
Currently, hunters in Michigan can kill two antlered deer per season, except on Drummond Island, where they are already limited to one.
The commission is expected to vote on a version of the one buck rule recommended by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources — and other proposed deer regulations — on May 13. If passed as currently written, the one buck rule would go into effect in 2027.
It’s an idea that some think could be a game-changer for deer hunting in the state. Others think it will have little impact except limiting hunters’ options.
“We have a buck-centric culture in Michigan. Everybody wants their buck. And we have an aversion, a flat-out refusal, to shoot does by many people. That needs to change,” said hunter Dan Ulfig. “It’s obvious that the one buck rule will improve antlerless harvest.”
Derek Rauch, however, said he agreed the DNR needs to find a way to get hunters to kill more antlerless deer, balance the herd’s sex ratio and increase hunter satisfaction, but he didn’t think it was clear the one buck rule would do the trick.
“A lot of hunters are going to see this as paying more for less flexibility, and all for a rule the state itself says will only have modest immediate effects,” he said.
The DNR refers to bucks as an antlered deer, which is any deer with an antler of 3 inches or more in length.
In the Lower Peninsula, if hunters buy a single deer license, it would default to being for an antlerless deer. If a hunter wanted to kill an antlered deer, they’d need to buy a combination license — raising the price from $20 to $40 for residents — and then only one of those deer could be antlered.
According to the DNR’s deer specialist, Brent Rudolph, a version of the one buck rule came out of the department’s deer advisory teams, as well as a request from Natural Resources Commissioner John Walters, who asked the department to write a recommendation to address the state’s buck-to-doe ratio.
The DNR does not know the buck-to-doe ratio in the state, but has a sense of the ratio from the deer hunters kill. In a given year, around 20% of hunters harvest an antlerless deer.
Over the past decade, 4% to 7% of killed deer — or 32,000 per year — were a second antlered deer killed by one hunter, the DNR said.
“Restricting hunters to a single buck doesn’t, according to our statistics, protect a whole lot of additional deer. There’s not a lot of hunters that take two bucks,” Rudolph said. “But it limits the options that folks have, and hopefully creates more of a reinforcement for antlerless harvest as an important part of the take.”
Hunters are divided on the issue. The DNR has never asked them about its specific recommendation, but, in 2020, a DNR survey found slightly less than half of hunters — 48% — would have supported limiting the combination license to allow for only one buck to be killed.
At the Natural Resources Commission meeting April 8, hunters spanning generations packed the room — many without seats — to have their voices heard on whether to limit hunters to killing one buck per season.
During a public comment period that lasted nearly four hours and included some who drove eight hours from the Upper Peninsula to get there, applause was louder for comments in support of the one buck rule.
“You don’t get a turnout like this when things are working,” said Josh Arbogast, a supporter of the one buck rule. “Young hunters who have been absent are here today because they still believe that this can change.”
Art for the Parks Returns to Hemlock Crossing This Saturday
Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective (LVAC) will transform the Nature Education Center at Hemlock Crossing County Park into a pop-up art venue for one night, this Saturday, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Art for the Parks is a collaboration between Ottawa County Parks Foundation and LVAC. The event brings regional artists, art patrons, and nature lovers together in a collaboration that benefits both nature and the arts.
The event features work by select regional artists in a wide range of media—painting, photography, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, fiber arts, and more. Much of the work is inspired by nature and natural spaces—many of which are familiar to the area’s parks’ lovers.
Art for the Parks is open to all and features a cash bar, live music by MacKael LaMore, and great eats from the strEAT Taco Kitchen food truck, parked outside the show.
A $10 suggested donation at the door and 10% of all art sold benefit the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. Guests can avoid the lines and be fast-tracked into the venue by signing up online before the show at the Ottawa County Parks Foundation website at ottawacountyparksfoundation.org/2026-art-for-the-parks.
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with LVAC as we celebrate the Ottawa County Parks Foundation’s 10-year anniversary and showcase the remarkable talents of West Michigan artists,” Ottawa County Parks Foundation President Barb Brown said. “Our mission is Bridging community to nature, and that connection has inspired many of the works featured. Proceeds will support ongoing improvements to our parks and help expand programs for students, families, and visitors. Together, we can weave the joy of nature into everyone’s lives.”
Art for the Parks is organized by the Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective (LVAC). LVAC organizes innovative pop-up art events in unexpected places, raising tens of thousands of dollars for area nonprofits and building a community of art patrons along the West Michigan lakeshore.
One-night shows are curated salon style - informal, nonlinear displays that build connection and contrast between works and artists. Door donations and a percentage of artists’ sales at all events go to a designated nonprofit partner in the community.
“Nature is a connection for so many West Michigan artists, and this collaboration celebrates that, and the important work of the Parks Foundation. LVAC’s mission is to create a sustainable artist community by partnering with area nonprofits and venues through innovative events with benefits that flow in many directions—to artists, patrons, and nonprofits,” Lakeshore Visual Artist Collective President Jane Stoepker said.
To find out how to become a member, sponsor, or venue, or to learn more about LVAC, visit www.LakeshoreVAC.com or find them on Facebook.
Art for the Parks is a collaboration between Ottawa County Parks Foundation and LVAC. The event brings regional artists, art patrons, and nature lovers together in a collaboration that benefits both nature and the arts.
The event features work by select regional artists in a wide range of media—painting, photography, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, fiber arts, and more. Much of the work is inspired by nature and natural spaces—many of which are familiar to the area’s parks’ lovers.
Art for the Parks is open to all and features a cash bar, live music by MacKael LaMore, and great eats from the strEAT Taco Kitchen food truck, parked outside the show.
A $10 suggested donation at the door and 10% of all art sold benefit the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. Guests can avoid the lines and be fast-tracked into the venue by signing up online before the show at the Ottawa County Parks Foundation website at ottawacountyparksfoundation.org/2026-art-for-the-parks.
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with LVAC as we celebrate the Ottawa County Parks Foundation’s 10-year anniversary and showcase the remarkable talents of West Michigan artists,” Ottawa County Parks Foundation President Barb Brown said. “Our mission is Bridging community to nature, and that connection has inspired many of the works featured. Proceeds will support ongoing improvements to our parks and help expand programs for students, families, and visitors. Together, we can weave the joy of nature into everyone’s lives.”
Art for the Parks is organized by the Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective (LVAC). LVAC organizes innovative pop-up art events in unexpected places, raising tens of thousands of dollars for area nonprofits and building a community of art patrons along the West Michigan lakeshore.
One-night shows are curated salon style - informal, nonlinear displays that build connection and contrast between works and artists. Door donations and a percentage of artists’ sales at all events go to a designated nonprofit partner in the community.
“Nature is a connection for so many West Michigan artists, and this collaboration celebrates that, and the important work of the Parks Foundation. LVAC’s mission is to create a sustainable artist community by partnering with area nonprofits and venues through innovative events with benefits that flow in many directions—to artists, patrons, and nonprofits,” Lakeshore Visual Artist Collective President Jane Stoepker said.
To find out how to become a member, sponsor, or venue, or to learn more about LVAC, visit www.LakeshoreVAC.com or find them on Facebook.
Double Your Angling Pleasure at Lake Mitchell/Lake Cadillac
Jack Payne (left) and Tom Maat goof off after catching some crappie.
Photo courtesy Jack Payne
By Jack Payne
The wind was pushing us along at above the perfect speed. We were casting the Charlie Brewer Crappie Grubs. The west and northwest ends of Lake Mitchell have a nice mix of weedbeds and open-water slots. A mixed bag of mostly crappie, some dandy pumpkinseeds, and a bass or two were caught.
One hour into our morning fishing, the rain moved in. We could see the rain line approaching. It took about 30 minutes to reach us. Quickly, we packed up and headed to the northeast end of Lake Cadillac. This area is easy to find. Look for the area where the park is, the walking trails, and across the street, the athletic field and the old military hut buildings.
The corner of the area is filled with old wooden dock pilings. Mixed in, you will find a few patches of cabbage weeds. Bordering this area and following the hiking trails is a really nice line of cabbage weeds. We fished this area for an hour before the rain, and the cold front hit.
One of the perks of fishing Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell is that one of the lakes are generally fishable under almost any weather condition. These two lakes are connected by a canal.
Vacationers will enjoy the sandy swimming area that borders the canal on the Lake Mitchell side. Across the street and accessible to Lake Cadillac via the tunnel is the state park campground. Campers can park their boats overnight in the canal, but it’s first-come, first-served.
Crappie fishing is good on both lakes. Some years we land better fish on Mitchell, other years on Cadillac. Mitchell has far more walleye, lots more, in my opinion. Cadillac might have bigger walleye, but the numbers are impressive on Mitchell.
Pike fishing is a toss-up between the two lakes. We catch larger pike on Cadillac, more on Mitchell. Mitchell has a healthy population of pumpkinseeds and an outstanding population of large bluegills. Cadillac is no slouch, with a very diverse population of panfish and bass. Thus, a great reason to fish these connected lakes.
We color-code our graphs so that all depths between 8-12 feet appear in a different shade of blue from the rest of the lake. This is the fastest way to find the weedbeds on Mitchell and the humps on Cadillac.
You can get as complicated as you wish. We keep things simple. Plastic tails are used when chasing crappies. The Brewer grubs are a favorite, as are the action tails. We might opt for a slip float with a marabou jig tipped with a minnow when drifting or when the wind takes the pleasure out of casting the weed edges.
Our walleye fishing is done primarily with three-inch Brewer grubs on a jighead or the Whistler jighead. Some days we fish a slip bobber with a leech on one rod and a lip bobber for the crappies.
Bluegills and pumpkinseeds are caught on a mini worm harness rig or a slip float. Bass and pike on spinners or the Rapala Husky Jerks.
On every trip to Cadillac/Mitchell, we walk the 40 acres of diverse habitat at the DNR visitors center. The center is located on the north side of the Canal. The walking trails are in excellent condition, and the various loops take you around marshes, wetlands, and Hemlock stands.
Turtles, a few bears, deer, muskrats, various species of ducks, geese, and many songbirds will be spotted from time to time. It’s really a cool place to walk. The visitor’s center is free, and the inside is very impressive with all of the cool displays. Fish, waterfowl, birds, and animals are mounted and on display, along with a history of the area. Once again, it’s free.
This location offers fishing, archery, and mushroom-hunting classes, and, yes, you are in the center of the state’s best morel area. You really need to stop in and check out what they have to offer during your visit.
Remember, turkey season is kicking off, fishing season has started, and Bob’s Gun and Tackle Shop is here to assist you.
The wind was pushing us along at above the perfect speed. We were casting the Charlie Brewer Crappie Grubs. The west and northwest ends of Lake Mitchell have a nice mix of weedbeds and open-water slots. A mixed bag of mostly crappie, some dandy pumpkinseeds, and a bass or two were caught.
One hour into our morning fishing, the rain moved in. We could see the rain line approaching. It took about 30 minutes to reach us. Quickly, we packed up and headed to the northeast end of Lake Cadillac. This area is easy to find. Look for the area where the park is, the walking trails, and across the street, the athletic field and the old military hut buildings.
The corner of the area is filled with old wooden dock pilings. Mixed in, you will find a few patches of cabbage weeds. Bordering this area and following the hiking trails is a really nice line of cabbage weeds. We fished this area for an hour before the rain, and the cold front hit.
One of the perks of fishing Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell is that one of the lakes are generally fishable under almost any weather condition. These two lakes are connected by a canal.
Vacationers will enjoy the sandy swimming area that borders the canal on the Lake Mitchell side. Across the street and accessible to Lake Cadillac via the tunnel is the state park campground. Campers can park their boats overnight in the canal, but it’s first-come, first-served.
Crappie fishing is good on both lakes. Some years we land better fish on Mitchell, other years on Cadillac. Mitchell has far more walleye, lots more, in my opinion. Cadillac might have bigger walleye, but the numbers are impressive on Mitchell.
Pike fishing is a toss-up between the two lakes. We catch larger pike on Cadillac, more on Mitchell. Mitchell has a healthy population of pumpkinseeds and an outstanding population of large bluegills. Cadillac is no slouch, with a very diverse population of panfish and bass. Thus, a great reason to fish these connected lakes.
We color-code our graphs so that all depths between 8-12 feet appear in a different shade of blue from the rest of the lake. This is the fastest way to find the weedbeds on Mitchell and the humps on Cadillac.
You can get as complicated as you wish. We keep things simple. Plastic tails are used when chasing crappies. The Brewer grubs are a favorite, as are the action tails. We might opt for a slip float with a marabou jig tipped with a minnow when drifting or when the wind takes the pleasure out of casting the weed edges.
Our walleye fishing is done primarily with three-inch Brewer grubs on a jighead or the Whistler jighead. Some days we fish a slip bobber with a leech on one rod and a lip bobber for the crappies.
Bluegills and pumpkinseeds are caught on a mini worm harness rig or a slip float. Bass and pike on spinners or the Rapala Husky Jerks.
On every trip to Cadillac/Mitchell, we walk the 40 acres of diverse habitat at the DNR visitors center. The center is located on the north side of the Canal. The walking trails are in excellent condition, and the various loops take you around marshes, wetlands, and Hemlock stands.
Turtles, a few bears, deer, muskrats, various species of ducks, geese, and many songbirds will be spotted from time to time. It’s really a cool place to walk. The visitor’s center is free, and the inside is very impressive with all of the cool displays. Fish, waterfowl, birds, and animals are mounted and on display, along with a history of the area. Once again, it’s free.
This location offers fishing, archery, and mushroom-hunting classes, and, yes, you are in the center of the state’s best morel area. You really need to stop in and check out what they have to offer during your visit.
Remember, turkey season is kicking off, fishing season has started, and Bob’s Gun and Tackle Shop is here to assist you.
Tips for Transforming a Patio, Balcony or Deck into an Outdoor Oasis
A patio transformed into an outdoor oasis and entertainment area.
Photo credit MelindaMyers.com
By Melinda Myers
You don’t need much space to create a bit of paradise on your balcony, patio or deck. Fill the space with a collection of plants that provide texture, color, and privacy. Then add comfortable seating, a fountain and lighting for additional ambiance and relaxation.
Start by evaluating the space you want to transform and how the surrounding views and noise will impact your enjoyment. Before enclosing the whole space, identify the views you need to screen and those you want to keep. Perhaps a view of your favorite flower garden, the park across the street or your neighbor’s water feature extends your enjoyment beyond the limits of your garden oasis.
Use tall grasses, large tropical plants, vines trained on trellises and upright shrubs and trees to define the space. These can be grown in weather-proof containers if no in-ground planting space is available. Just make sure your balcony or deck can handle the weight of the planters once filled with soil and plants.
Select plants that provide multiple benefits. Look for plants that deliver several seasons of beauty with flowers, colorful foliage, seedheads and fall color. Include fragrant plants for aromatherapy and those that attract butterflies and hummingbirds to add motion and color.
Decide how you plan to use the space. Are you longing for a quiet area to relax and read, one to entertain or a space to accommodate all your outdoor activities? Select furnishings with the color, form, and style that will create your desired look and feel. Then select plants, containers and accessories that complement the furnishings for your outdoor oasis.
Add a stand-alone or wall-mounted fountain or container water garden to the space. The sound of moving water helps create a sense of peace and relaxation, calming the mind, reviving the spirit and masking noise pollution.
No need to worry about mosquitoes taking residency in your water feature. Moving water is less appealing and adding an organic product like Summit® Mosquito Dunks® to water features prevents mosquitoes from breeding there. Just toss this donut-shaped cake of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) into the water. This naturally occurring bacteria only kills the mosquito larvae but doesn’t harm people, pets, fish or wildlife.
Further reduce mosquito problems by lighting a few citronella candles and placing them near you and others enjoying the space. Use a fan to help keep you cool and the weak-flying mosquitoes away.
Extend your enjoyment into the evening with some lighting. Be mindful of birds and night-flying insects by using shields to point light down to the ground instead of into the night sky. Select lights with lower lumens that aren’t as bright but still provide sufficient light and ambiance for you. Avoid white and blue light and opt for amber and yellow greens that are less disruptive to the birds and night-flying pollinators.
Like any decorating or gardening project, be ready to make needed adjustments. While fine-tuning your design, be sure to take time to relax and enjoy your new space.
—————
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Summit for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is MelindaMyers.com.
You don’t need much space to create a bit of paradise on your balcony, patio or deck. Fill the space with a collection of plants that provide texture, color, and privacy. Then add comfortable seating, a fountain and lighting for additional ambiance and relaxation.
Start by evaluating the space you want to transform and how the surrounding views and noise will impact your enjoyment. Before enclosing the whole space, identify the views you need to screen and those you want to keep. Perhaps a view of your favorite flower garden, the park across the street or your neighbor’s water feature extends your enjoyment beyond the limits of your garden oasis.
Use tall grasses, large tropical plants, vines trained on trellises and upright shrubs and trees to define the space. These can be grown in weather-proof containers if no in-ground planting space is available. Just make sure your balcony or deck can handle the weight of the planters once filled with soil and plants.
Select plants that provide multiple benefits. Look for plants that deliver several seasons of beauty with flowers, colorful foliage, seedheads and fall color. Include fragrant plants for aromatherapy and those that attract butterflies and hummingbirds to add motion and color.
Decide how you plan to use the space. Are you longing for a quiet area to relax and read, one to entertain or a space to accommodate all your outdoor activities? Select furnishings with the color, form, and style that will create your desired look and feel. Then select plants, containers and accessories that complement the furnishings for your outdoor oasis.
Add a stand-alone or wall-mounted fountain or container water garden to the space. The sound of moving water helps create a sense of peace and relaxation, calming the mind, reviving the spirit and masking noise pollution.
No need to worry about mosquitoes taking residency in your water feature. Moving water is less appealing and adding an organic product like Summit® Mosquito Dunks® to water features prevents mosquitoes from breeding there. Just toss this donut-shaped cake of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) into the water. This naturally occurring bacteria only kills the mosquito larvae but doesn’t harm people, pets, fish or wildlife.
Further reduce mosquito problems by lighting a few citronella candles and placing them near you and others enjoying the space. Use a fan to help keep you cool and the weak-flying mosquitoes away.
Extend your enjoyment into the evening with some lighting. Be mindful of birds and night-flying insects by using shields to point light down to the ground instead of into the night sky. Select lights with lower lumens that aren’t as bright but still provide sufficient light and ambiance for you. Avoid white and blue light and opt for amber and yellow greens that are less disruptive to the birds and night-flying pollinators.
Like any decorating or gardening project, be ready to make needed adjustments. While fine-tuning your design, be sure to take time to relax and enjoy your new space.
—————
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Summit for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is MelindaMyers.com.
How to Protect Your Lawn and Garden from Invasive Pests This Spring
To mark National Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is calling on Michiganders to protect their landscapes and the state’s natural resources from invasive pests this spring.
“Every gardener, landowner, and outdoor enthusiast can help protect the natural resources we cherish,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “By staying informed, choosing native plants and local firewood, checking vehicles, and reporting suspected invasives, Michiganders play an important role in supporting MDARD’s year-round monitoring and response efforts.”
Unchecked invasive species can devastate native plants and wildlife, reduce biodiversity, compete for resources, and permanently alter habitats, making early awareness and action critical to protecting the environment. These unseen pests hitch rides on outdoor gear, vehicles, firewood and even everyday items like plants, soil, seeds and fresh produce, allowing them to move quickly into new areas.
Follow these simple steps to stop the spread of invasive pests:
• Buy smart. Purchase plants, seeds, and firewood from reputable, local or certified vendors to reduce the risk of introducing invasive pests or diseases.
• Don’t move firewood. Buy firewood where you burn it and look for heat-treated or certified options to prevent spreading pests hidden in untreated wood.
• Be mindful when traveling. Check for pests before returning home. When traveling internationally, declare all food, plants and agricultural items to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
• Check your vehicles and trailers. Inspect your camper, trailer, boat, off road vehicle and tires any time you travel. Mud can harbor seeds, while invasive pests and their egg masses can hide on vehicles.
• Choose native plants. Support local ecosystems, provide habitat for pollinators and wildlife and reduce maintenance while limiting opportunities for invasive species to take hold.
• Know what to look for. Learn how to identify common invasive plants, pests and diseases in Michigan and report concerns to the Michigan Invasive Species Program. Early detection can significantly limit invasive pests’ spread and impact.
“Healthy landscapes start with smart plant choices and proper care,” said Michelle Atkinson, Executive Director of the Michigan Green Industry Association. “Sourcing plants and materials from local, trusted and certified nurseries and garden centers helps ensure what you’re bringing home is safe and responsibly produced. By choosing plants carefully and avoiding invasive species, homeowners can protect Michigan’s environment while creating thriving, resilient gardens.”
When Michiganders take simple steps to prevent the spread of invasive species, they become part of a larger, coordinated effort. MDARD, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, works to detect and manage invasive species across Michigan.
“Every gardener, landowner, and outdoor enthusiast can help protect the natural resources we cherish,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “By staying informed, choosing native plants and local firewood, checking vehicles, and reporting suspected invasives, Michiganders play an important role in supporting MDARD’s year-round monitoring and response efforts.”
Unchecked invasive species can devastate native plants and wildlife, reduce biodiversity, compete for resources, and permanently alter habitats, making early awareness and action critical to protecting the environment. These unseen pests hitch rides on outdoor gear, vehicles, firewood and even everyday items like plants, soil, seeds and fresh produce, allowing them to move quickly into new areas.
Follow these simple steps to stop the spread of invasive pests:
• Buy smart. Purchase plants, seeds, and firewood from reputable, local or certified vendors to reduce the risk of introducing invasive pests or diseases.
• Don’t move firewood. Buy firewood where you burn it and look for heat-treated or certified options to prevent spreading pests hidden in untreated wood.
• Be mindful when traveling. Check for pests before returning home. When traveling internationally, declare all food, plants and agricultural items to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
• Check your vehicles and trailers. Inspect your camper, trailer, boat, off road vehicle and tires any time you travel. Mud can harbor seeds, while invasive pests and their egg masses can hide on vehicles.
• Choose native plants. Support local ecosystems, provide habitat for pollinators and wildlife and reduce maintenance while limiting opportunities for invasive species to take hold.
• Know what to look for. Learn how to identify common invasive plants, pests and diseases in Michigan and report concerns to the Michigan Invasive Species Program. Early detection can significantly limit invasive pests’ spread and impact.
“Healthy landscapes start with smart plant choices and proper care,” said Michelle Atkinson, Executive Director of the Michigan Green Industry Association. “Sourcing plants and materials from local, trusted and certified nurseries and garden centers helps ensure what you’re bringing home is safe and responsibly produced. By choosing plants carefully and avoiding invasive species, homeowners can protect Michigan’s environment while creating thriving, resilient gardens.”
When Michiganders take simple steps to prevent the spread of invasive species, they become part of a larger, coordinated effort. MDARD, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, works to detect and manage invasive species across Michigan.
Department of Natural Resources?Graduates 48 New Park Rangers From Academy
Following nine weeks of rigorous training, 48 park rangers graduated earlier this month from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ newly formatted Ranger Academy at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon.
The 2026 ranger graduation marks a significant milestone for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, as it represents the first time the department consolidated ranger training into a single, comprehensive program. Previously, the training was held as two separate sessions.
The PRD Ranger Academy’s new nine-week curriculum was streamlined so that newly hired commissioned rangers and noncommissioned rangers could create a cohesive team-building environment:
Weeks 1-4: Commissioned rangers focused on intensive law enforcement and regulatory training. DNR Law Enforcement Division training instructors assisted with this year’s academy, ensuring consistent tactics and understanding across DNR responses. Rangers work closely with conservation officers to respond to incidents at park units across the state.
Weeks 5-9: Noncommissioned rangers joined the cohort to complete facilities management, public safety and park operations training.
From Twin Lakes State Park in Houghton County in the western Upper Peninsula to Belle Isle Park in Detroit in Wayne County, the 48 graduates represented state parks and recreation areas, harbors and field offices from all over the state.
Just as the rangers represented a broad geographic spectrum, their curriculum was equally diverse. Rangers took classes that covered maintenance and construction (plumbing, electrical, small engine repair), water safety, equipment operation, CPR/first aid, search and rescue, survival tactics, criminal law, crowd control, firearm awareness, basic chainsaw and more.
Learn about DNR career pathways and job opportunities at Michigan.gov/DNRJobs.
The 2026 ranger graduation marks a significant milestone for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, as it represents the first time the department consolidated ranger training into a single, comprehensive program. Previously, the training was held as two separate sessions.
The PRD Ranger Academy’s new nine-week curriculum was streamlined so that newly hired commissioned rangers and noncommissioned rangers could create a cohesive team-building environment:
Weeks 1-4: Commissioned rangers focused on intensive law enforcement and regulatory training. DNR Law Enforcement Division training instructors assisted with this year’s academy, ensuring consistent tactics and understanding across DNR responses. Rangers work closely with conservation officers to respond to incidents at park units across the state.
Weeks 5-9: Noncommissioned rangers joined the cohort to complete facilities management, public safety and park operations training.
From Twin Lakes State Park in Houghton County in the western Upper Peninsula to Belle Isle Park in Detroit in Wayne County, the 48 graduates represented state parks and recreation areas, harbors and field offices from all over the state.
Just as the rangers represented a broad geographic spectrum, their curriculum was equally diverse. Rangers took classes that covered maintenance and construction (plumbing, electrical, small engine repair), water safety, equipment operation, CPR/first aid, search and rescue, survival tactics, criminal law, crowd control, firearm awareness, basic chainsaw and more.
Learn about DNR career pathways and job opportunities at Michigan.gov/DNRJobs.
