Michigan Department of Natural Resources photo J.R. Richardson, left, is shown on the set of WLUC-TV6’s “The Ryan Report” with host Don Ryan. Richardson, one of two Upper Peninsula representatives on the Michigan Natural Resources Commission, will appear live Thursday on “Ask the DNR” to answer viewer questions with DNR staffers.

MARQUETTE – One of the Upper Peninsula’s two representatives on the Michigan Natural Resources Commission, J.R. Richardson of Ontonagon, will join staffers from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to answer viewer questions live Thursday night on “Ask the DNR” on WNMU-TV13.

In addition to Richardson, who lives in Ontonagon, the DNR panelists will include John Bauman, fisheries biologist from Escanaba, Dave Jentoft, wildlife biologist from Sault Ste. Marie and conservation officer Colton Gelinas, who patrols Mackinac County.

With the firearm deer hunting season approaching quickly, many questions are expected to focus on deer hunting and its various regulations, but the discussion is typically wide-ranging based on viewer interests.

The hour-long broadcast, hosted by Mike Settles, will air live at 8 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. The program will be available later for online viewing, where WNMU-TV13 archives past shows.

The broadcast will be underwritten by the U.P. Whitetails Association of Marquette County, whose members will be volunteering to answer calls during the program.

“This show will be another great opportunity for viewers to get their questions answered from DNR experts, as well as an important regional representative on the NRC, the appointed regulation-making body for the DNR,” said John Pepin, DNR deputy public information officer. “Getting to have questions answered directly is a great way to share information between the department and the public.”

Viewers are reminded to leave their name, city and phone number when calling in questions. Those questions not answered on the air will be answered by DNR staffers in returned phone calls following the program.

To phone questions in during the live telecast, call 1-800-227-9668.