Department of Natural Resources invites the public to participate in the bear management planning process at two different meetings scheduled for next week in the northern Lower Peninsula.

During the next nine months, the DNR will be working with regional and statewide stakeholder groups to receive input on bear management concerns and guidance on potential bear management strategies. The DNR plans to have a bear management plan in draft format by winter 2009.

The northern Michigan meeting locations and dates are as follows:

• Monday, Aug.11: Hillman, Hillman Recreation Center, 24220 Veterans Memorial Hwy. Tuesday, Aug. 12: Cadillac, Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center, 6087 East M-115

At each location, the facilitated meetings will begin at 6 p.m. and end at 9 p.m. All interested persons are encouraged to attend and participate.

Individuals can also submit written comments via e-mail or U.S. mail. Send comments: Adam Bump, DNR Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 30444, Lansing, MI 48909 or via e-mail at: dnr-wld-wild@michigan.gov.

Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact Pauline Gray at 517-373-1263 or grayp@michigan.gov, at least seven days prior to the meeting date to request mobility, visual, hearing, or other assistance.