July 2025 NRC Preview

Emily VanderWall • July 8, 2025

July 2025 NRC Preview

The July 2025 Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) meeting will take place on Thursday, July 10 at Lansing Community College West Campus, beginning at 9:30 a.m. 


The Director will present reports on the Status of Lake Whitefish in the Upper Great Lakes and Generally Accepted Operation Practices for Shooting Ranges 


The Director must consider action items for the May 1,2025 Oil & Gas Lease Auction Results and Generally Accepted Operation Practices for Shooting Ranges.  


There are no new orders for the NRC to consider. 


At the June meeting, the NRC stated that the order to reopen the coyote season has been tabled for an August vote. Commissioners have the option to address the wildlife conservation order during the old business portion of any meeting. 


Due to the commission’s ongoing lack of action, MUCC launched the Coyote Coalition—a petition supported by Michigan hunters, landowners, and concerned citizens who believe the commission is falling short of its legal duties and not properly representing the public. Sign the petition today to make your voice count


MUCC reviews all land transactions exceeding 80 acres, of which there are three.   


Land Transaction Case #20240185 is a purchase of 235 acres to expand public access within the Pigeon River Country State Forest. 


Land Transaction Case #20240245 is a purchase of 160 acres to incorporate a mix of hardwood and conifer forests, including wetlands, into the Sault Ste. Marie Management Unit. 


Land Transaction Case #20250019 is a purchase of 80 acres to expand state-managed forestlands in Winterfield Township, Clare County. 


MUCC will be streaming the meeting on our Facebook and YouTube as technology allows. 


To ensure our natural resources remain protected and managed thoughtfully and our outdoor heritage defended, join Michigan United Conservation Clubs today: http://bit.ly/JoinMUCC


Recent Posts

By Olivia Triltsch July 3, 2025
The United States is not shy about using big, beautiful fireworks in celebration of many occasions. July 4th is a day of celebration for many within the country, celebrating the country’s independence from Great Britain in 1776. Fireworks and barbecues are the most common modes of celebration on this day in recognition of the historic significance of the day. While these grand displays are something many look forward to each year, it is important to consider the impacts these explosions have on the surrounding area, including pets and wildlife.
By Justin Tomei June 30, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MUCC Submits Public Comment in Support of Line 5 Tunnel Project Lansing, MI — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC), the nation’s largest statewide conservation organization, has submitted formal public comments urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to approve the Enbridge Line 5 Tunnel Project. In a letter submitted today, MUCC emphasized the need to move this critical infrastructure forward to protect the Great Lakes while maintaining safe, reliable energy transportation. “MUCC supports the tunnel project as the best available alternative to reduce the risk of an environmental disaster in the Straits of Mackinac while continuing to deliver essential energy products to Michigan families and industries,” said Amy Trotter, CEO of MUCC. “We believe the tunnel project strikes a balance between protecting the environment and maintaining energy security.” MUCC’s position is backed by a formal resolution passed by its membership, which includes thousands of hunters, anglers, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts across Michigan. The resolution supports the tunnel as a long-term solution that replaces the aging and exposed pipeline segment currently crossing the Straits, offering greater environmental safeguards through secondary containment. The organization cited the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which acknowledges the tunnel’s benefits, including reduced spill risk and a controlled, buried environment for transporting light crude oil and natural gas liquids. MUCC also rejected the "no action alternative," which would allow the existing line to remain in operation without any new protective infrastructure. “Other alternatives, like transporting fuel by truck or rail, are inefficient and carry greater environmental and safety risks,” Trotter added. “Allowing the current line to operate exposed on the lakebed indefinitely is simply not acceptable.” MUCC’s comment stresses that the organization is not weighing in on the type of energy transported, but rather on the environmental risks and safety benefits of the tunnel itself. Originally approved by the Michigan legislature and governor in 2018, the Great Lakes Tunnel Project represents a once-in-a-generation investment in infrastructure and environmental protection. MUCC urges the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to issue the necessary permits and move forward with construction without further delay. For Media Contact: Justin Tomei jtomei@mucc.org 517-346-6488 #####
By Olivia Triltsch June 26, 2025
Since its inception, MUCC has made great strides in the conservation of natural resources through advocacy, habitat, youth education, and communications.
More Posts