Michigan private landowners reap hunting and fishing fees

By Zachary Dawes and Jarrett Skorup | Michigan Capitol Confidential

A new grant program in Michigan takes extra money from hunting and fishing fees and distributes it to private landowners.

The state Department of Natural Resources recently announced 12 wildlife habitat grant winners for the “Deer PLAN” (Private Land Assistance Network). This grant is available to private landowners in six counties in northern Michigan ostensibly to improve deer habitat.

One hunter wasn’t thrilled about the program. Tom Wills is an outdoorsman from Quinnesec in the Upper Peninsula.

“I can’t tell you how happy I am to hear that Michigan DNR is giving my license fees to a dozen private land owners, including five private hunt clubs,” he said sarcastically.

at Michigan Capitol Confidential.