July 2019: Wildlife Conservation Month

WHEREAS, Michigan’s natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and plentiful waters are enjoyed from Belle Isle to Baraga by millions of residents and visitors and should be preserved and protected for future generations; and,

 

WHEREAS, hunters and anglers were among the first conservationists, pushing for active wildlife management and conservation to ensure wildlife flourishes for future generations; and,

 

WHEREAS, science-based wildlife management and conservation decisions such as actively enhancing habitat, monitoring wildlife populations, preventing the spread of disease, and regulating hunting and fishing seasons help balance our use of natural resources with the needs of Michigan’s wildlife; and,

 

WHEREAS, Michigan has approximately 11,000 inland lakes and 36,000 miles of rivers and streams which provide abundant wildlife habitat; and,

 

WHEREAS, as a result of these protections, regulations, and extensive conservation efforts, Michigan populations of white-tailed deer, grouse, Kirtland’s Warbler, and many other species have rebounded from near extirpation; and,

 

WHEREAS, July 1^st marks the 81st anniversary of the effective date for the Pittman-Robertson Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, which provides funding for wildlife management projects across the nation through the purchase of hunting equipment; and,

 

WHEREAS, in place of state taxes, hunting and fishing licenses provide tens of millions of dollars each year for wildlife conservation; and,

 

WHEREAS, hunters and anglers contribute $11.2 billion annually to Michigan’s economy and create 171,000 jobs, making these activities one of the state’s top 10 job-creating industries, according to a recent Michigan United Conservation Clubs study; and,

 

WHEREAS, this year is the fifth anniversary of the creation of the Michigan Wildlife Council, a bipartisan-approved panel entrusted with educating the public about the importance of wildlife management in preserving Michigan’s outdoor heritage for future generations; and,

 

WHEREAS, in large part because of the council’s activities, more Michiganders than ever are aware of the essential role hunting and fishing play in conserving, managing, and protecting Michigan’s wildlife;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim July 2019 as Wildlife Conservation Month in Michigan.