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Purchase a Wildlife Habitat License Plate
Since the nongame fund was established in 1983, the program has had three main goals:
- To restore populations of endangered and threatened species through management and protection.
- To maintain present populations of animals and plants.
- To promote appreciation and awareness of Michigan's nongame wildlife and endangered species through education and first-hand opportunities to experience wildlife.
Species management efforts are aimed at restoring endangered and threatened animals and plants and keeping common species common. Peregrine falcons, trumpeter swans, gray wolves, Kirtland's warblers, Mitchell's satyrs, lake sturgeon and common terns are just a few of the hundreds of wildlife species that have benefited from projects supported through the trust fund.
Wildlife recreation also has benefited. The fund supports a network of more than 100 watchable wildlife sites throughout Michigan. These sites provide a variety of opportunities to view some of our state's most popular wildlife species.
Wildlife education is the program's third major focus. Over the years, a number of educational programs have been supported, including distribution of more than three million habitat and species posters, numerous interpretive trails, and other signs and programs.
Since its inception, the Nongame Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund has raised more than $9.5 million in support of critical projects for nongame species. In partnership with the Secretary of State's office, the fundraising vehicle registration plate provides Michigan's citizens with an opportunity to help the program continue and grow.