Conservation
Hunting and fishing play a crucial role in the conservation of Michigan’s valuable natural resources.
A delicate balance
Michigan is host to thousands of miles of fresh water shorelines, millions of acres of forests and a vast and diverse population of wildlife. These unique natural resources require active management by people to ensure they’ll continue to be here for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.
Hunting and Fishing: The primary source of conservation funding
The vital work of wildlife management is primarily funded through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and equipment, not state taxes. In fact, hunting and fishing licenses provide more than $60 million in revenue per year.
BENEFITS TO WILDLIFE
Scientific wildlife management keeps animal populations in balance and restores native populations of rare, threatened or endangered species. It also addresses unique challenges and threats, including preventing the spread of disease.
MEET THE SPECIESBENEFITS TO OUR WATERS
Conservationists work to keep pollution from degrading our waters by restoring and enhancing aquatic habitats and wetlands. They also prevent invasive species from contaminating our 11,000 inland lakes, and 36,000 miles of rivers and streams, ensuring Michiganders have a multitude of opportunities to connect with the outdoors through water recreation.
BENEFITS TO OUR FORESTS
Michigan’s 20 million acres of tress help keep our air and water clean. Careful management keeps them healthy and provides habitat for thousands of wildlife species, while reducing the risk of wildfire and flooding. As a renewable resource, forests contribute $21 billion to Michigan’s economy and account for more than 96,000 jobs.
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