Elk are a remarkable Michigan story. Today’s thriving herd dates back to 1918, from seven elk brought from the western United States to Wolverine, in Cheboygan County, to help restore a population decimated in the late 1800s by unregulated harvest and lack of quality habitat. Successfully managing that population to provide excellent viewing and hunting opportunities while sustaining long-term herd health takes a lot of planning and partnership.
As the Michigan Department of Natural Resources works to update the state’s elk management plan, last revised in 2012, input from the public – hunters, wildlife watchers and others with an interest in wildlife conservation – is a critical part of the process.
The DNR will host a public meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday April 27, at BJ’s Restaurant and Catering, 990 N. Center Ave., in Gaylord. DNR wildlife staff will give a brief presentation on the elk management planning process and then open a discussion on elk-related topics.
If you’re unable to attend the meeting, there are two options to share your feedback through April 30:
Send comments by email or traditional mail (DNR Wildlife Division, 1732 W. M-32, Gaylord, MI 49735).
Questions about the meeting? Contact Chad Stewart at 517-282-4810.
Note to news editors: An accompanying photo (with caption) is available for download. Photo credit: Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Elk in Michigan forest: The DNR will host a public meeting April 27 in Gaylord, Michigan, to share information about updating the state’s elk management plan.
