New Law Aims to Protect Game Species
House Bill 4050 will preserve scientific integrity of DNR studies, halt unsportsmanlike conduct.
LANSING — Today, Governor Whitmer signed House Bill 4050 into law. State Rep. John Cherry (D-Flint) introduced House Bill 4050 to preserve the scientific integrity of Department of Natural Resource (DNR) studies and halt their use for unsportsmanlike conduct in the taking of game species.
“In recent years, the Michigan DNR was forced to end grouse drumming surveys due to unsportsmanlike use of FOIA laws to determine the bird’s location, letting folks target those populations for hunting purposes,” Cherry said. “Participating in the traditions of hunting, birdwatching, fishing, and other activities show our love and respect for Michigan’s great outdoor spaces. Along with this enjoyment comes a duty of stewardship. We must ensure our policies protect practical, scientifically-sound wildlife management options.”
With this law, The DNR should be able to restart grouse drumming surveys to monitor Michigan’s ruffed grouse population. The data collected through surveys administered by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources are used to monitor the health and status of Michigan’s species. House Bill 4050 has been assigned the title PA 33 of 2021.
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