LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan deer will be under closer inspection, as two state agencies work together to try and address population challenges throughout the state. 

Collaboration between two agencies.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources alongside the Michigan Natural Resources Commission are collaborating to address present day deer management challenges. 

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“The Deer Management Initiative process is poised to guide recommendations and lay a framework for future deer management changes. We are looking forward to working with our traditional stakeholder organizations and partners, while also welcoming creative, new voices. It’s important that none of us are tethered to a single idea, that we are all willing to explore novel and diverse solutions to enhance our deer herd and effectively address the challenges ahead,” said DNR deer management specialist Chad Stewart.

Different deer issues across different peninsulas.

The Lower Peninsula is facing particular challenges in regards to fewer hunters which has affected traditional management according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, a problem made worse by a rise in privately owned land which can limit hunting opportunities. The DNR also highlighted the dangers of bovine tuberculosis, a bacterial attack on an animal’s respiratory system, and chronic wasting disease (CWD), a contagious illness affecting the nervous system in deer in some areas of the state. In comparison, the Upper Peninsula has other challenges such as changing weather patterns and various predators present according to the DNR. 

The state agencies will be seeking public input including contributions from different natural resources organizations and tribal partners as they develop plans to address deer management. 

“We’ll be developing two separate groups, one for each peninsula, since the challenges in each area are unique,” Stewart said. “Our focus with each group will be to pull together people with different perspectives and experiences but a common passion for improving Michigan’s deer herd for future generations.”

How can the public get involved?

Those interested in having their voices heard can submit applications for their commentary to be considered through Jan. 31, and they will be notified shortly afterwards according to the DNR.

The Deer Management Initiative application can be found here.  Alternatively, the public can submit thoughts on various topics pertaining to the project by emailing DNR-Wildlife@Michigan.gov with the letters “DMI” in the subject line.