- Details
(Provided by Michigan DNR)
Biologists: Mild Winter a Blessing for Michigan Wildlife
Looking out your window, do you find yourself saying, "This winter is different?"
Remembering last winter, areas of Michigan had not inches, but feet of snow on the ground by mid-November. In stark contrast, this winter, many parts of Michigan didnít receive any significant snowfall that stayed on the ground, until after Christmas.
With the effects of one of the strongest El Nino weather patterns on record ñ warmer Pacific Ocean waters producing atmospheric changes in weather thousands of miles away ñ this winter certainly is different.
As a result, weather forecasters are predicting above-average temperatures and drier than normal winter conditions across the northern tier of the country, including Michigan.
Michigan DNR wildlife biologists have been fielding inquiries about how the milder conditions might be affecting wildlife this winter.
- Details
(Provided by Michigan DNR)
DNR Biologists Continue to Track Michigans Black Bear PopulationFor the past 90 years, black bear hunting has been part of the bear management program in Michigan.
Bears are managed by the Michigan DNR to maintain populations, provide recreational opportunities, including hunting and viewing, and help reduce the potential for problems with bears.
The strategic goals of the DNR's Black Bear Management Plan recognize hunting as a priority component of scientific management that balances bear biology with the desires of the public.
- Details
(Provided by Michigan DNR)
Michigan state game area managers are seeking public input related to master plans for several areas in the southwestern region of Michigan.
State game area master plans provide direction for habitat management, based on both the featured speciesselected for management at each state game area and use of the areas for recreation such as hunting and wildlife viewing. Management objectives outlined in the master plans also may impact local economies through activities liketimber sales, agricultural production and wildlife-based tourism.
- Details
(Provided by Michigan DNR)
No fishing license required in Michigan Feb. 13-14The Michigan DNR reminds anglers of the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 13, and Sunday, Feb. 14.
That weekend, everyone - residents and non-residents alike - can fish without a license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.
Michigan has celebrated the Winter Free Fishing Weekend every year since 1994 as a way to promote awareness of the state's vast aquatic resources. With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams, and 11,000 inland lakes, Michigan and fishing are a perfect match.
- Details
Hot Time for Great Lakes Minnow HarvestersFalling water temperatures can mean a lot of things to those who enjoy the outdoors.
Cold water increases interest in steelhead fishing, for instance, and decreases the focus on bass fishing. However, to Jeff Slancik of Bay County, cold water means just one thing: It's time to catch minnows.
Slancik, 49, of Pinconning is a bait dealer whose business heats up when the weather cools down.