Showcasing the DNR

On Sept. 1, 1974 – shortly after the federal Endangered Species Act became law – Michigan enacted its own endangered species law. The state law helps protect plants and animals listed as federally endangered and develop programs to protect and conserve Michigan’s rare species. It's really about keeping the cool plants and animals that are native to our state here – because that's what makes Michigan unique.

The North Country National Scenic Trail, which spans 4,800 miles across eight states. Michigan is home to 1,200 of those miles, which travel through state game areas, forests and parks. The state is home to 12 North Country National Scenic Trail chapters, all led by volunteers.

When Grouse Enhanced Management Sites were established in 2014, the goal was simple yet ambitious: create premium grouse and woodcock habitat for hunters. Over the past decade, the program has grown to include 19 sites, spanning 73,000 acres in Michigan’s Upper and northern Lower peninsulas. The sites range in size from 500 to 11,000 acres. After 10 years, the GEMS program continues to thrive thanks to years of dedicated support from DNR land managers, conservation partners, local communities and volunteers.

More than 1,300 passionate full-time employees contribute to the department’s conservation efforts. To highlight some of the work those employees do, the DNR has started a growing collection of videos, compiled in the Michigan DNR Careers playlist on YouTube. Here’s a glimpse at some of the careers featured.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ efforts to make the state’s natural resources available for people of all abilities to enjoy are a top priority, with a wide variety of accessible recreation opportunities continuing to grow at state parks, campgrounds, boating access sites, state game areas, trails and more.