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Natural Resources Commission oversteps on deer harvest order

Guest column

GREG MARKKANEN

Hunting season is a storied tradition in the Upper Peninsula.

Unfortunately, another storied tradition in our region has become the state’s Natural Resources Commission not taking our voices and concerns into account.

The commission’s recent deer harvest reporting mandate is another example in a long list of instances where it has been out of touch with U.P. residents. The new order requires hunters to file online reports within 72 hours after taking a deer — including exact location, type of hunting device used, and other personal information. Failure to do so would constitute a misdemeanor offense.

I know many people across the U.P. who hunt and talk with many more. They’re hard-working, law-abiding citizens who are enjoying a recreational activity with their friends and family on a fall day. They’re not criminals — but that’s what this state agency is trying to turn them into.

I am fighting to stop this misguided effort that unfairly burdens our hunting community. I recently voted for legislation prohibiting the Natural Resources Commission from requiring hunters to make these reports. I am hopeful the governor will sign it into law now that it has cleared both the House and Senate.

On top of the jarring misdemeanor offense that goes along with failing to adhere to the directive, it’s simply not practical. Many hunting areas do not have reliable internet access. Some people may be on trips in these areas that stretch multiple days, putting them in the crosshairs of the commission’s reporting deadline.

This mandate will also further damage the state’s ability to attract new hunters and keep existing ones. Hunting is already on the decline in Michigan. According to the Department of Natural Resources, the total number of people participating in all three deer hunting seasons last year was down 5% from the previous year. As you can imagine, that causes an uptick in deer. Some communities in our state have had to deploy personnel to cull populations — a task hunters usually perform organically.

Extensive reporting requirements and threats of misdemeanors will only exacerbate these trends. You’ll see less orange in the woods when there’s more red tape. The order also pivots away from what legislators and the governor have prioritized in Lansing. Recent efforts have reduced penalties for low-level offenses related to hunting and fishing, such as failing to properly display hunting and fishing licenses or failing to attach names and other identification to hunting blinds.

To help alleviate issues like this going forward, I have introduced new legislation creating a Natural Resources Commission for the U.P. The bills establish the separate panel’s authority and lay out rules for its operation. This commission will be tailored for us — reflecting our values and ensuring matters involving U.P. hunting and fishing, outdoor recreation regulations and other important natural resources issues are headed up with U.P. residents and input at the forefront.

Our traditions and voices matter. I will continue to work in the Legislature to ensure they are protected and prioritized.

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State Rep. Greg Markkanen of Hancock is serving his second term in the Michigan House representing the 110th District, with residents in Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw and Ontonagon counties, as well as Powell and Ishpeming townships in Marquette County.

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