Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Coverage of Michigan Department of Natural Resources in the Nexus archive.
- Michigan DNR asking public to report sightings of gray foxes in the state
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is requesting public assistance to locate gray foxes in the state, as researchers seek to understand their distribution amid declining populations. The DNR emphasizes that gray foxes are elusive and encourages residents to report sightings, including images and videos, to aid conservation efforts. Gray foxes are described as having grizzled gray coats, black-tipped tails, and red coloration on the neck, chest, and legs.
- Morning 4: 4 rescued from steep embankment after vehicle crash — and more news
Two adults and two children were rescued from a 30-foot embankment in Southfield after a vehicle crash. Michigan wildlife biologists are conducting a wild turkey brood survey. NBA reports suggest the Detroit Pistons have inquired about Kevin Durant's availability. Taylor police officers shot an armed robbery suspect linked to a U-Haul truck during a traffic stop.
- Want to help track Michigan’s next generation of wild turkeys? Here’s how
Michigan's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is conducting a wild turkey brood survey to monitor population health, part of a conservation success story since turkeys were reintroduced in the 1950s. The survey, open until August 31, relies on public reports to track turkey numbers and reproduction across the state.
- State asks residents to report turkey sightings to study reproduction success
Michigan's Department of Natural Resources is requesting residents to report wild turkey sightings from July 1 to August 31 to study reproduction success. The annual survey, part of a multi-state effort by the National Wild Turkey Federation, has collected over 17,000 observations since its launch four years ago, tracking turkeys that have rebounded to all Michigan counties.
- Michigan has reported 13 cougar sightings so far in 2026
Michigan reported 13 confirmed cougar sightings in 2026 as of May 1, with most detected via trail cameras in the Upper Peninsula. This follows 31 sightings in 2025, including the first documented cougar cubs in the state in 100 years. DNR officials note some sightings may involve the same animals and emphasize increased camera coverage.
- Bills to create a separate Upper Peninsula hunting, fishing authority meet opposition in House
Republican representatives proposed legislation to create a separate Upper Peninsula Natural Resources Commission to oversee hunting and fishing, citing ecological differences between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The bills faced opposition from the House committee and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, with concerns about potential conflicts and enforcement challenges.
- 5 bald eagles found dead in Michigan, raising poaching concerns
Five bald eagles were found dead in Michigan's Upper Peninsula over two weeks, prompting a wildlife investigation. Officials ruled out natural causes, predators, or vehicle strikes, suggesting possible illegal killing. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is seeking public tips and offering rewards for information leading to arrests.
- Supreme Court rules for Michigan in its fight to shut down an aging energy pipeline
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Michigan's lawsuit to shut down a section of the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline under the Straits of Mackinac will remain in state court, citing Enbridge's delay in moving the case to federal court. The pipeline, operational since 1953, has faced legal battles over safety concerns and environmental risks, with Michigan revoking its easement in 2020 and Enbridge seeking permits for a protective tunnel.