October NRC Meeting Preview: Wildlife, Habitat, and Regulation Updates on the Agenda

Justin Tomei • October 7, 2025

The Michigan Natural Resources Commission (NRC) will convene for its October meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Michigan Technological University’s Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts in Houghton, MI. This monthly gathering brings together commissioners, Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff, and the public to discuss policy decisions and updates impacting the state’s natural resources, wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities. 


The meeting will begin with Coffee with Commissioners from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., followed by the formal session at 9:30 a.m. Attendees can park for free in Lot 10, located east of the Rozsa Center. 


The meeting will open with a presentation from DNR leadership, including several notable updates and informational reports: 


  • Spring Turkey Regulations: Wildlife Division staff will present proposed changes to spring turkey hunting regulations for 2026. 
  • Wildlife Habitat Grants: Program leads will outline new habitat grant initiatives and highlight ongoing restoration efforts across the state. 
  • Moose Population Monitoring: A presentation will cover results from the most recent moose survey and discuss ecological and environmental factors limiting population growth. 
  • White-Nose Syndrome: The Wildlife Division will provide the latest data on the spread and impact of white-nose syndrome on Michigan’s bat populations. 


New Business

The commission will consider a range of new proposals and action items, including: 


  • Oil and Gas Lease Auction: Approval for a proposed October 21, 2025, lease auction for energy development on state-managed lands. 
  • Land Transactions: Consideration of multiple land sales, acquisitions, and donations, including parcels in Tuscola, Wayne, St. Clair, and Luce counties. 
  • Wildlife Orders: Review of spring turkey regulations for the 2026 hunting season. 


Old Business

The NRC will also revisit several regulatory items from previous meetings, including proposed amendments to a number of Fisheries Orders. This includes an amendment further expanding underwater spearfishing to larger portions of the Great Lakes. 


All orders and amendments for consideration can be found at the NRC agenda, HERE. 


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