In the March, 2006 issue of Michigan Turkey Tracks we wrote of the demise of Pigeon River Country State Forest.In the article were listed specific problems that endangered the “Big Wild”, one of the most unique forests on this planet.

During the 26th Wild Turkey Hunters Rendezvous, which was held on March 31 at Baldwin we presented three awards to three well deserving people.

 

A certificate of Professional Excellence was presented to Ruthann French, a DNR wildlife technician who has worked

As this is being written in mid July, after months of study and talk House Bill 4624 that will increase hunting license fees and Senate Bill 406 that will increase fishing license fees have been introduced in the legislature.

 

The fee schedule is complex but as an example a resident turkey license will increase by increment

Our wish is that each and everyone had a successful turkey hunt this past spring whether or not you outsmarted that old gobbler. There is no other experience like being in the woods and fields at the first crack of daylight to experience the outdoors world awaking. Think of the anticipation as a nearby gobbler greeting the morning light. 

The restricted portion of a turkey hunting license brings in somewhere around $1,500,000 each year. While the fund is being used for parking lots, gates, stream bank stabilization and questionable land purchases, among others there appears to be a lack of funds for equipment purchases and creating and maintaining turkey habitat on state forest lands.