MUCC Blog

Volunteers Brave Michigan Winters

History

This year, MUCC’s On the Ground program is partnering with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to host a hands-on volunteer project focused on improving wildlife habitat on public land. This project brings together hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts to make a tangible impact while learning more about the habitats that support Michigan’s wildlife. 

Michigan winters are long, but that just means fishing season doesn’t stop, it adapts to the weather. For many anglers, winter means ice fishing: drilling holes in frozen lakes, scouting for perch or pike, and enjoying fresh air with family and friends. This year, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is making it even easier to get out on the ice by holding a Free Fishing Weekend that’s perfect for both experienced anglers and folks trying ice fishing for the first time.

Squirrels have been part of Michigan’s forests and woodlands since before European settlement, thriving in diverse habitats from dense hardwood forests to

Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) are not year-round residents in Michigan, but they have a long history of passing through the state during seasonal migrations

Balsam fir (Abies balsamea) is a native evergreen tree found throughout Michigan’s forests, especially in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula

American kestrels (Falco sparverius) have long been part of Michigan’s landscape, nesting in fence posts, tree cavities, and old woodpecker holes across farmlands

Although baiting is illegal or restricted in much of Michigan, there is still an opportunity to transition efforts toward enhancing habitat for deer on the property