The Department of Natural Resources will host a series of public meetings across the state in April to discuss conservation priorities for the department and the state of Michigan. The Conservation Town Hall meetings will be led by DNR Director Rebecca Humphries, with the assistance of the Michigan State University Extension Service. Visit the Town Hall Web page

"These meetings are a chance for the DNR to discuss with a broad range of recreational enthusiasts how to best invest in conservation during these tough economic times," said Humphries. "As the department charged with managing the state's natural resources, we want to ensure we are making the best possible decisions in meeting our mission and ensuring a natural heritage for the future."

All the meetings will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. The meetings are scheduled for:

• Monday, April 6, at the Prince Conference Center Great Hall at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, located at 1800 E. Beltline SE.
• Wednesday, April 8, in Rooms 100 A-B-C at Davenport University in Midland, located at 3555 E. Patrick Rd.
• Monday, April 13, in the Michigan Room of the Bottum University Center at Northern Michigan University, located at 540 W. Kaye Ave. in Marquette.
• Tuesday, April 14, in the meeting room of the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, located at 1213 W. Civic Center Dr. in Traverse City.
• Monday, April 20, in the banquet room of the Novi Civic Center, located at 45175 W. 10 Mile Rd. in Novi.

Among the topics Humphries will discuss with participants are the role of the DNR in natural resources management, land management, how best to recruit new outdoor enthusiasts, the priorities for the future, and what citizens value the most about their outdoor activities in Michigan.

Humphries encouraged anyone interested in outdoor recreation and natural resources to attend the public meetings, including hunters, anglers, trail riders, campers, boaters, mountain bikers, hikers, birdwatchers, and representatives from resource-based industries.

Persons with disabilities needing accommodations should contact Natalie Elkins in the DNR Office of Communications at (517) 373-6919 a minimum of five business days before the meeting. Requests made less than five business days before the event may not be accommodated.