• Starboard Choice Marine
  • Moore Boats

MDNR Report

Trumpeter SwansTrumpeter Swans

The Michigan list of threatened and endangered plants and animals now includes 407 species after completion of its seventh update in nearly 50 years. Experts from universities, the Michigan Natural Features Inventory, other conservation organizations and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources recommended changes to the list based on recent data.
 
“When people come together to collaborate on conservation, we can recover rare species,” said DNR endangered species specialist Jennifer Kleitch. “For instance, trumpeter swans were just removed from Michigan’s threatened and endangered species list. Their populations have grown as a result of significant conservation efforts by many partners over decades."

Although the trumpeter swan has been removed from Michigan’s list of threatened and endangered species, it is still federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

While 36 species were removed from the list, others still need our help, Kleitch said.

Three bat species – little brown, northern long-eared and tri-colored – have been listed as threatened due to significant population declines in the state resulting from white-nose syndrome. Rusty-patched bumblebees and American bumblebees were added to the endangered species list because, like many pollinator species, their populations are seeing large declines.

In all, 58 species were added to the list as either threatened or endangered.

By DON POPPE and RACHEL LEIGHTNER, Michigan DNR

Gourdneck State Game AreaGourdneck State Game Area

Surrounded by family homes, thriving businesses and city traffic, Gourdneck State Game Area is the first designated urban state game area of its kind.

Here hunters and community members have an opportunity to connect with nature via a short drive or walk.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division oversees more than 340,000 acres of public lands in southern Michigan.

This system of lands known as state game and wildlife areas includes more than 100 locations specifically managed for wildlife habitat and hunting opportunity that are open to public use for wildlife-based recreation.

Gourdneck State Game Area is nestled in the bustling city of Portage in Kalamazoo County. The area is divided into four distinct sections totaling over 2,293 acres. Almost entirely within the Portage city limits, Gourdneck is still a popular destination for hunters, and a hub for diverse wildlife populations and habitats.

By SIERRA WILLIAMS, Michigan DNR

Jim DexterJim Dexter

It’s the age-old question many children are asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Well, around the age of 10, Jim Dexter knew exactly what field he wanted to work in, but he never imagined or planned that it would lead him to be the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division Chief.

Dexter caught his first fish, which was a northern pike, at the age of 3 with his grandfather. Not only was this the start of him being hooked on the thrill of catching fish, but his appreciation for the world of fisheries grew with each cast and catch.

Dexter credits his grandfather for his love of fishing, as he was the one who taught him all the tips and tricks on how to fish.

Throughout his childhood, Dexter spent a lot of time outdoors. He and his friends would share fishing tips, trade tackle and catch bluegill, bass and crappie at a small local lake. If they weren’t on the water, then then were likely found at the local Kmart to pick up the latest lure that came out.

His love for the outdoors carried on to his junior and high school years as he volunteered nearly every weekend at the Bloomfield Hills E.L. Johnson Nature Center.

He helped manage the pond on the grounds and built a dock for visitors to fish from. Here is where he met his first mentor, who he spent time with discussing careers and the outdoors. With a career path in mind, Dexter graduated high school and prepared for college.

MDNR Report

To help fill vacancies for essential conservation officer roles in 14 counties, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is hiring licensed law enforcement officers for an accelerated conservation officer training program.  

“The accelerated hiring process will allow licensed officers who have received general criminal training to bypass the traditional Conservation Officer Recruit School Academy and immediately begin their natural resources law enforcement training,” said Capt. Jen Wolf, DNR Law Enforcement Division. “This helps us bring in skilled, motivated officers with diverse law enforcement experience to quickly fill existing vacancies.”

Counties with vacancies include: Baraga, Cass, Chippewa, Eaton, Huron, Ingham, Kalamazoo, Lapeer, Mackinac, Midland, Ontonagon, Oscoda, Shiawassee and Tuscola.

Qualified applicants must be at least 21 years of age and meet one of the following requirements:

  • Hold a current Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards license.
  • Be a graduating student from a law enforcement academy and eligible for immediate licensure upon employment.
  • Be a licensed law enforcement officer in another state and meet MCOLES requirements.

Interested? Apply by May 10. Successful candidates will meet DNR hiring requirements, including being a State of Michigan resident, by the time training ends.

Stationed in nearly every county of the state, DNR conservation officers are fully licensed law enforcement officers who enforce laws and regulations related to fish and wildlife, state parks, trails and forests, and outdoor recreation activities such as off-road vehicle use, snowmobiling and boating. They also often serve as first responders during natural disasters and life-threatening situations.

D&R Sports Report

The D&R Sports Center in Kalamazoo will kick off its Spring Fishing Show April 14, 15 and 16 with a stellar seminar lineup.

Kevin VanDam - Jonathon VanDamKevin VanDam - Jonathon VanDam

Speakers this year include Kevin and Jonathon VanDam, Mark Zona, smallmouth guide Chris Noffsinger, Canadian Bassmaster Pro and smallmouth expert Cory Johnston and Major League Fishing pro Josh Bertand.

Josh Bertand - Cory JohnstonJosh Bertand - Cory Johnston

In addition, KVD will be doing seminars with Justin Freeman, Director of Product Management at Humminbird. They will cover everything from Dual Spectrum Chirp to Side Imaging, Down Imaging, Mega 360, Mega Live, Lakemaster map chips and the One Boat Network. You will learn the ins and outs of those technologies and how to use them to catch more fish.

Store managers promise big sales on just about everything in stock and factory representatives from several companies will be on hand to discuss their products.

Show hours are 9-8 Friday, 9-6 Saturday and 9-4 Sunday. There is no admission fee.