Outdoor commentary and legislative issues.
The Archives of Michigan today announced that the original survey maps of Michigan’s 1,400 individual township parcels have been scanned and are now available to search, browse and print at www.seekingmichigan.org. 
The maps included in the collection at Seeking Michigan document land surveys that were conducted by the federal government to lay out Michigan’s township and range grid system. Some maps Read more
By Glen Wunderlich
After having the chance to participate in the legislative process on behalf of House Bill 5249 and giving testimony in its support, I really thought the bill would pass this year. Being able to use straight-wall cartridges in rifles in the southern “shotgun” zone seemed to be a no-brainer. I know I am with thousands of ethical sportsmen who are disappointed in the news, but here is the latest status direct from Matt Lori’s (R-District 59) office based on my request for information:
Dear Mr. Wunderlich,
Thank you for your email to Representative Lori, which will be drawn to his attention.
At this late stage in the Legislative Session, it does not seem likely that the Senate is going to move the bill forward. The bill is not on the most recent agenda for the Outdoor Recreation and Tourism’s next meeting. Without that movement forward it is unlikely that the bill will be back to the House for a final vote during “lame duck”.
Representative Lori very much appreciates your support, and will likely re-introduce the bill next year.
Sincerely
Susan Martin Chief of Staff District 59
1-877-262-5959
(Senate Roll Call)
Passed 27 to 11 in the Senate on November 29, 2012. View All of Senate Bill 59: History, Amendments & Comments
The vote was 27 in favor, 11 against, and 0 not voting. (Senate Roll Call) Read more
By Glen Wunderlich
With the close of regular firearms deer season, the herd will have an opportunity to return to less-pressured activity before the advent of muzzleloading season. Of course, archery hunters have no waiting period, but relatively few of them are willing to brave the oft-harsh elements of December. On the other hand, muzzleloading participation continues to rise, largely based on refined equipment available to deer hunters.
Modern in-line muzzleloaders have paved the way for thousands of Michigan deer hunters to remain afield for some late season action. In Zone III, the season runs from December 7th through the 23rd – the most generous in the state.
Here are a few thoughts to get the job done. Read more
Wolf or coyote? We report; you decide here…
A judge ordered a temporary restraining order and halted the trapping of wolverines in Montana. Of course the whacko groups are behind this one, as usual, but could they be right this time? The USFWS was conducting an evaluation relative to the Endangered Species List but ran out of money for the study – in no small part because of having to pay the whacko groups attorneys’ fees for so many frivolous suits. In any case, the season has been suspended and details of the wolverines’ plight are here…
“Clearly, there is, we believe, an overpopulation of wolves in an isolated area and the west end of the U.P. is suffering because of it,” declared Senator Tom Casperon of Escanaba. More here…
This from the NRA… “The bill would amend the law to clarify that the EPA does not have the authority to regulate shot, bullets or sport fishing equipment.“
Just over two weeks ago, the U.S. Senate voted 84-12 to advance S. 3525, “The Sportsmen’s Act of 2012.” However, this week, by a 50-41 vote, the bill suffered a setback when the Senate failed to clear a procedural hurdle and move on to finish work on the bill. There is still time to get this critically important legislation passed, but you must act now! S. 3525 is an essential piece of legislation focused on the expansion and enhancement of hunting, recreational fishing and shooting on federal public land. But it’s more than that. Read more
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) today announced that a new parcel of land is open for public access in Livingston County, near Stockbridge. This parcel, called The Vigo Tract, offers quality hunting and outdoor recreation opportunities for Southeast Michigan. Read more
GW: I now understand why I never see these birds except when flying high above. Oh, yes, that sound is unmistakable. A good education follows here…
by Doug Reeves, assistant chief, DNR Wildlife Division
Nov. 12, 2012 was the Veteran’s Day holiday but it was also a spectacular migration day. A strong cold front came across the continent, with the northern portion arriving in Mid-Michigan during the early morning hours accompanied by rain. The rain had ended by about noon, and the temperature dropped from the low 50’s to the upper 30’s. There was a strong westerly wind, sometimes with significant shifts to the north or northwest. Conditions were just right for tundra swans to migrate, and migrate they did! Read more